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I LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, 

i Chap. tJXW-S- 

Shelf J!Lx%A 

UNITED STATES OF AM 





SELECTIONS 



FROM THE 



LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS 



OF 



WILLIAM GROVER; 



PRECEDED BY 



A BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICE OF HIS LIFE. 



u Be not slothful, but followers of them who through 
faith and patience inherit the promises."— Heh vi. 11. 



SECOND EDITION. 



lontion: 




PRINTED FOR HARVEY AND DARTON, 
55, GRACECHURCH-STREET. 

1829. 



13 A 



rf^ 






V > 



Our late friend, William Grover, 
was so justly esteemed in our religious 
Society, that it has been thought the fol- 
lowing Selection from his Letters and 
Papers ivould be acceptable to his friends. 
They may instructively revive the recollec- 
tion of his Christian labours and example 
amongst us ; and of his earnest solicitude 
for the preservation of his friends from 
all that is evil, and for their growth in 
true piety. 

J.R 

Tottenham, 8th month, 1828. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAP. VAGK. 

I. Biographical Memoir of William Grover 1 

II. Meditations and Reflections 19 

III. Letters and other papers relating to the 

character and principles of our reli- 
gious Society 37 

IV. Letters and other Papers addressed to 

the Youth 51 

V. Extracts of Letters written from the 
year 1#00 to 1811, with some other 
papers 67 

VI. Extracts of Letters written from the 

year 1812 to 1819 93 

VII. Extracts of Letters written from the 

year 1820 to 1823 120 

VIII. Extracts from Letters written in the 

years 1824 and 1825 131 



SELECTIONS, %c 



CHAP. I. 



BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR OF WILLIAM 
GROVER. 

William Grover, the son of William and 
Elizabeth Grover, was born at Brighthelmstone 
in Sussex, the 15th of the 13 th month, 1752. 
Very few particulars are known of his early 
life. After leaving school, he was placed as an 
apprentice with Edmund Rack, a Friend, who 
was a retail country shopkeeper, at Bardfield in 
Essex. Soon after the expiration of the term, 
he engaged himself as an assistant to Samuel 
Day, who was also a member of our religious 
society, and in a similar business, and who lived 
at Stansted Mount-Fitchet, in the same county. 
After serving him with diligence and integrity 
for several years, he became a partner in the 
concern, and resided there during the remain- 

B 



2 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

der of his life. He inherited some patrimonial 
property, his father having died when he was 
young; but, at the same time, he found it ne- 
cessary to pursue his engagements in business, 
and was esteemed an upright tradesman, of 
kind and respectful manners ; one who was care- 
ful, in all things, to act as becomes a member of 
our religious society. He continued in trade 
until within a few vears of his decease; and 
though diligent in attending to these, the neces- 
sary cares of life, he was not engrossed with 
them : possessing a well-regulated and pious 
mind, he may be said to have pursued the con- 
cerns of time with eternity steadily in view. 

In the year 1786, he married Isabel Wea- 
therald, of Wensleydale, in the north-western 
parts of Yorkshire, who has survived him; and 
in their union, for nearly forty years, which 
was a source of mutual comfort and happiness, 
he proved himself a truly-affectionate husband; 
uniformly evincing, under every circumstance, 
the greatest tenderness and sympathy. 

The subject of this memoir, was one who, 
from early life, was of a thoughtful turn of 
mind, and showed a strong attachment to the 
principles and testimonies of Friends. As he 
advanced in years, he submitted to the hum- 
bling, refining operations of divine grace; and, 



OF WILLIAM GROVER. 3 

through continued watchfulness and obedience 
to the pointings of duty, he attained to that ex- 
perience and stability in the truth, of which his 
conduct and religious usefulness afterwards 
gave abundant proof. A description of some 
parts of his religious character, is appropriately 
given in the following extracts, from a memorial 
concerning him, issued by the Friends of Thax- 
ted monthly meeting, of which he was a mem- 
ber. 

" It is not our intention to extol the character 
of the deceased, as a man, estimable as he was, 
in the various relations of life ; but to exhibit 
his Christian virtues, and ascribe, as he did, all 
excellency to the power of divine grace, merci- 
fully granted to mankind, for their salvation, 
through the mediation of the blessed Redeemer, 
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The rec- 
titude of his conduct, in the discharge of his 
moral and religious duties, his humility, meek- 
ness, and dedication to the cause of truth, were 
all fruits of faith in the means thus graciously 
afforded. 

"He was very exemplary in the fulfilment of 
his duty to his Maker, by a constant attendance 
of religious meetings, when of ability ; in which 
his solid deportment indicated great reverence 
of spirit, and fervency of desire to gain access 



4 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

to the Fountain of all Good ; and, on these oc- 
casions, we believe that his mind was often 
enriched with the incomes of divine love and 
peace. 

" He was a great lover of retirement and 
meditation. The frequent reading of the Holy 
Scriptures was also a source of instruction and 
comfort to him; and this practice he was often 
tenderly engaged to recommend to others, as 
one of the means by which they might be 
strengthened and encouraged to advance in the 
Christian path. 

"The views he took of himself were humble, 
whilst his estimate of the true Christian charac- 
ter was a highly exalted one. Hence arose 
great vigilance and circumspection, that no part 
of his demeanour should dishonour the cause 
he so greatly valued and loved. This care was 
manifested in all his conduct; and evidently so, 
in transacting the affairs of the church, in which 
his judgment was clear, and his language per- 
suasive; tending much to encourage friends in 
the support of the discipline, in the executive 
part of which he very rarely excused himself 
from service; having a great care for the pros- 
perity of truth, and that his fellow-professors 
might be faithful in our testimonies, and con- 
sistent in all their conduct, endeavouring to 



OF WILLIAM GROVER. 5 

keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of 
peace. 

" Perhaps few have been so much favoured 
with the prevalence of love : it seemed to be 
the constant clothing of his mind, and was 
evinced towards all classes of society. The 
youth, especially, were the objects of his tender 
solicitude; for whose early attention to the re- 
proofs of instruction, and for their growth and 
establishment in the Truth, he felt an unremit- 
ting concern." 



j & 



His important services in our yearly meeting, 
and his communications to his friends, will be 
long remembered. He often spoke of the com- 
fort which he derived from reflecting on the 
goodness, and mercy, and loving-kindness of 
our Heavenly Father; inviting others, and par- 
ticularly his younger friends, to seek to live 
under the influence of his love. His remarks 
were clear, comprehensive, and concise; and 
the precious influence which they produced, 
was often, in a remarkable degree, to be felt, 
after the conclusion of them. 

He was a willing labourer in the church of 
Christ— an elder worthy of double honour ; 
doing what his hands found to do with a cheer- 
ful heart, as one serving a good and gracious 
Master, and thus forcibly recommending the 



6 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

principles he professed. Highly valuing the 
care which our Christian discipline provides, 
and manifesting a deep concern for its being 
rightly and impartially exercised, he at the same 
time discovered much caution and tenderness 
in cases of delinquency, cherishing feelings of 
love and compassion, when judging of the errors 
and weaknesses of others. He was very anxious 
that all the meetings, established for transact- 
ing the affairs of our society, should be held 
under the influence of Christian love, and in the 
fear of the Lord ; being convinced that, were 
this the case, they would often be times of solid 
instruction. 

Whilst he was a firm believer in the imme- 
diate teachings of the Holy Spirit, he was diffi- 
dent in speaking of his own experience ; and 
though well persuaded that our religious prin- 
ciples lead to great spirituality, he was very 
cautious of judging others, or deciding for 
them. His desire was, that all might be drawn 
in love to seek after the guidance of that wis- 
dom which cometh from above, and to see the 
beauty and excellency of the truth as it is in 
Jesus. Believing, as he did, that our prede- 
cessors had been called to uphold a pure and 
perfect standard of Christian doctrine, he was 
deeply solicitous that this might in no way be 
lowered by Friends of the present day; and 



OF WILLIAM GROVER. 7 

that they as individuals, and the Society as a 
body, might endeavour so to act, as to bring 
others to see and to acknowledge the con- 
sistency of our profession with the gospel dis- 
pensation. 

His general appearance was meek and grave, 
exhibiting a bright example of a religious cha- 
racter; an habitual gratitude, and filial fear of 
God, marking his life and demeanour. He be- 
haved with great kindness and courtesy to all ; 
at the same time maintaining the dignity of a 
disciple of Christ, so that his deportment com- 
manded esteem and deference* 

Our dear and honoured friend was particu- 
larly pleased with the society of young persons; 
and to many of this class he was endeared by 
the sweetness and affability of his manners, 
conversing with them in a way which secured 
their confidence and esteem. He felt tender 
solicitude for them, in thinking of the tempta- 
tions to which they were peculiarly exposed ; 
and whether any hints which he offered to 
these, were designed to encourage them to per- 
severe in the right way of the Lord, or to check 
the early appearance of a departure from Chris- 
tian simplicity, they were expressed with so 
much love, that they found a ready entrance 
into the heart. Highly valuing the approved 
writings of our Society, he often recommended 



8 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

them to the attention of those in early life. He 
promoted also their perusal of works of litera- 
ture and useful information ; but saw a danger 
in the young and inexperienced entering much 
into the religious opinions of others. Yet he 
was far from being illiberal in his views, often 
gratefully acknowledging his belief, that sects 
and distinctions are lost in the divine sight. 

William Grover appeared to think unkindly 
of no one ; but, when obliged to censure the 
conduct of any, he did it with great feeling and 
compassion. At the same time, there was a 
quick perception of what was wrong, and it was 
not allowed to pass unreproved. He had a 
strong objection to hearing the absent slightly- 
spoken of, or their faults made the topic of 
conversation. On these occasions he would ob- 
serve silence, or remind the company to be 
careful in their remarks on others, lest they 
should unguardedly injure the character of their 
friends; being himself careful not to make com- 
parisons. He was of a cheerful, contented dis^ 
position, and considered it right to derive plea- 
sure and gratification from temporal things, as 
blessings from the hand of an Almighty Bene- 
factor; provided they were kept in subordina- 
tion to the great purpose of life, and not suffered 
to engross too much of the time and affections. 
He met the vicissitudes of life with calmness, 



OF WILLIAM GROVER. 9 

and was careful not to suffer cross occurrences 
to discompose his mind, or to draw him into the 
use of impatient expressions. 

The remembrance of his absent friends was 
frequent and lively ; and he evinced a warm 
affection for those whom he had loved and 
esteemed in his youth. He seldom forgot the 
afflicted, whether rich or poor. To those of 
the latter class he was kind and considerate, re- 
lieving their wants, often visiting them in their 
dwellings, when he would enter into conversation 
in a way adapted to them, and peculiar to him- 
self; and frequently, in the retired circle of his 
own family, would speak of and commiserate 
the condition of those who had received fewer 
blessings than himself, or who had had a greater 
portion of affliction or suffering. 

He was a man of great punctuality and order 
in the daily transactions of life, seldom deferring 
until the morrow the work of the day ; steady 
and diligent in what he undertook, and a good 
economist of time. Few were aware of the ex- 
tent of his usefulness in cases of a private nature, 
among his neighbours. To these he was free of 
access on all occasions ; and much of his time 
was employed in their service. Possessing an 
intelligent mind and a clear judgment, he was 
often consulted; and his assistance was 'fire- 
is 5 



10 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

quently solicited to settle little differences. He 
entered into such cases with great deliberation : 
his decisions were not hastily formed, and they 
were mostly well received. 

When the Auxiliary Bible Society was formed 
in that part of the county of Essex in which he 
resided, he readily united in the support of it, 
and took an active part in investigating the want 
of the Scriptures among his poorer neighbours. 
He was a diligent member of the committee 
until the time of his illness, and felt a lively in- 
terest in the circulation of the Scriptures, both 
at home and abroad. At the same time, he was 
anxious that the concerns of this society might 
be conducted under the influence of those feel- 
ings, and in that temper of mind, to which the 
Sacred Writings bear testimony; and, whilst 
believing, as he did, in the divine authority of 
Holy Scripture, he was very desirous that these 
records should be properly designated, and that 
men should not confound the possession and dis- 
tribution of the Bible, and the mere knowledge 
of its contents, with the partaking of those living 
waters which flow immediately from Christ, the 
fountain of life — of that bread which cometh 
down from heaven, and which, when received 
with a lively, operative faith, enables us to work 
out the salvation of the soul with fear and 
trembling. 



OF WILLIAM GR0VER. 11 

His friends had ample evidence of his being 
a firm believer in the essential doctrines of the 
Gospel. In a memorandum left behind him, 
he says: "I believe it is consistent with the 
genuine principles of Friends, that all the com- 
munications of the mercy, love, power, and 
goodness of God to his creature man, are in, 
by, and through our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
Christ, and no otherwise, and in this belief I 
am thankful to live and unite." 

In a letter, written in the eleventh month, 
1823, after alluding, in terms of strong disap- 
probation, to the views of one whose sentiments 
were decidedly contrary to those of our society, 
" on a point of such supreme importance as the 
divine nature of our blessed Lord and Saviour 
Jesus Christ," he proceeds : " Can I close this 
subject better, than with the following quotation 
from a recently-published pamphlet, in which 
the writer, when speaking of Christ, says : 
f What encouragement and comfort is there in 
the contemplation of his character and offices, 
both as prophetically indicated, and evan- 
gelically displayed, from the first and most ob- 
scure, to the last and most comprehensive and 
expressive : viz. The Bruiser of the Serpent's 
head ; Immanuel, God with us ; the Lord our 
righteousness; the Child born; the Son given, 
upon whose shoulders the government of his 



12 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

people is for ever to be ; whose name should be 
called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, 
the everlasting Father, and the Prince of Peace ; 
the root and the offspring of David; the bright 
and morning Star ; the Son of Man ; the Son 
and Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of 
the world ; who hath loved us, and washed us 
in his blood*.' " 

William Grover possessed a sound constitu- 
tion, and enjoyed remarkably good health, until 
within a few months of his death. On the 16th 
of 5th month, '1825, he left home early in the 
morning, to attend the Yearly Meeting, from 
which he had been very seldom absent for nearly 
forty years. He arrived in London in time for 
the first sitting of the meeting of ministers and 
elders, and acted as an assistant to the clerk; an 
office which he had for some time acceptably 
filled, and which he resigned at the close of that 
sitting. With his accustomed alacrity and in- 
terest in the concerns of the society, he entered, 
throughout the day, into the proceedings of the 
meeting. Towards the evening he felt unwell, 
and, in the course of the night was so alarm- 
ingly ill, that his wife was sent for early the 
following morning. His disorder was a very 

* " A comprehensive View of the Xature of Faith," 
page 40. 



OF WILLIAM GROVER. 13 

painful one ; and, for several days, his life was 
considered to be in great danger. His medical 
attendants attributed his restoration to health, 
so far as it took place, to the serenity and 
humble resignation with which he bore his suf- 
ferings, as much as to the means which were 
employed. 

The following memorandum, written in Lon- 
don, on the occasion of this illness, was found 
among his papers. 

" This has been a remarkable visitation, such 
an one as I never knew ; except that of the 
small-pox, more than forty years ago, may be at 
all compared with it. I might be said to be 
attacked very unexpectedly, and in a lonely 
condition ; but help and comfort, as to outward 
accommodation, sprang up remarkably; and I 
think it might be said, that every requisite was 
supplied. As to the most important part, it 
seemed to have a great effect in breaking the 
mind off from this world, and exciting earnest 
desires for a preparation and fitness to enter into 
rest and peace everlasting. 

"One feature was very striking: the kind, 
affectionate interest of Friends, respecting me 
and my case, was indeed beyond what it would 
seem proper to record. But, at the same time, 
perhaps at scarce any period have I so feelingly 
and clearly seen my own unworthiness and in- 



14 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

significance, or so feelingly prized a state of 
littleness and humble reduction ; so that, like a 
little babe, I might be permitted, in simplicity 
and perfect innocence, to draw nourishment in 
quietness from the breast of ever-enduring and 
inexhaustible consolation." 

In a letter to two of his intimate friends, he 
remarks : 

" I am desirous (I hope with a degree of 
humble gratitude) of informing you, that, with- 
in three or four days, considerable improvement 
in my health has taken place; and, whilst I am 
so abundantly sensible, from recent past expe- 
rience, of the uncertainty of the things of time, 
yet I wish duly to appreciate this favour, per- 
mitted to a poor traveller through the chequer- 
ed vale of time." 

Towards the end of the sixth month, he so 
far recovered, as to be able to return home, on 
which occasion he made the following memo- 
randum. 

1825. — 7 mo. 13. "Being permitted, on the 
30th ult. in company with my dear wife, cousin 
Elizabeth Glaisyer, and John Hooper, to reach 
home in safety, I am aware it is my duty, not 
only as a child, to crave divine consolation, but 
also to watch the openings and presentations of 
duty which may be vouchsafed, however small ; 
so that the talent entrusted may not be buried 



OP WILLIAM GROVER. 15 

under the feelings of feebleness, or any thing 
else.'* 

In two letters to his friends, not long after- 
wards, he thus alludes to his illness : 

1825. — 8 mo. 7. " We can see but little 
before us ; and what a favour it is, when cir- 
cumstances arise, to be enabled to meet them 
with prudence and peaceful resignation. This 
illness may be said to be a proof that we are 
not our own keepers, but poor, dependent crea- 
tures. Oh! that we may have light in our 
dwelling and on our path ; and, through bound- 
less mercy, peace within our borders." 

8 mo. 26. * Respecting resignation, how just 
are thy remarks, that our wishes as well as our 
works should at all times harmonize with the 
divine will : indeed, our study should be, to be 
circumscribed thereby; but this is no light 
matter, but a high and most precious attain- 
ment. Do not thy remarks, however, beg two 
most interesting questions ; namely, e the day's 
work accomplished, and the expected conse- 
quent reward V also, ' the time arrived for dis- 
solving every tender, earthly tie V With awful- 
ness and reverence these may be left in the 
holy, dispensing hand of Him who doeth all 
things well; whilst we, in grateful, humble, sen- 
sibility of the value of the present precious bless- 
ings, manifest our due estimation of them, by 



16 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

neglecting no proper means to secure their con- 
tinuance in due and filial submission, all the 
while, to his infinite wisdom, goodness, and 
mercy." 

As the health of William Grover improved a 
little after his return home, his friends cherished 
the pleasing hope that his valuable life would 
be lengthened, and that they should be per- 
mitted longer to partake of the instruction to be 
derived from his bright example and Christian 
counsel. But He who ordereth all in perfect 
wisdom, and who will graciously supply the 
spiritual need of those who look in faith unto 
Him, saw meet to terminate the trials of this 
his faithful servant, and to admit him, as there 
is every reason to believe, to the participation 
of that peace and joy which are reserved for 
the righteous in the life which is to come. 

" The expressions of a religious nature, that 
our late dear friend uttered towards the close 
of life, were not numerous ; but they all par- 
took of that humble, yet confiding and peaceful 
character, that distinguished him when in 
health, and bespoke a mind looking towards 
heaven, of which, he said, he had l had a plea- 
sant view, particularly of late ;' and that he was 
4 favoured to feel very little condemnation.' At 
different times he thus expressed himself: 
4 The prevailing desire of my mind has been, for 



OF WILLIAM GROVER 17 

many years, that I might close in peace. I 
have have had many blessings, many tempt- 
ations, and many trials, in my time ; but have 
been mercifully helped through them.' At one 
time, evidently under great tenderness of spirit, 
he observed, * The shadow of divine mercy is 
very broad ;' and at another, when conversing 
about his illness, he said, c It is a source of 
great consolation to know, that He who formed 
us is near.' 

" In the afternoon of the day preceding his 
decease, he expressed himself to the following 
effect: ' There is nothing so precious, whether 
in youth or in age, sickness or health, as a sense 
of the divine presence and love. I have had 
great cause thankfully to believe, that the pro- 
tecting arm of kind Providence has been with 
me all my life long, from my youth up ; and, 
after a pause, added, ' It is my greatest desire 
that my sun, which now seems nearly set, may 
go down in brightness, without a cloud ; rely- 
ing only upon the goodness of the Almighty, 
who can change a life of suffering for one of 
comfort and endless happiness — who can make 
a death-bed as a bed of roses. Yea, I bless 
thy holy name, thy presence and love can make 
a death-bed as a bed of roses.' Afterwards he 
said, in nearly these words : ' My life seems fast 
closing, and my afflictions nearly at an end, I 



18 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR, &C. 

have been greatly afflicted, [alluding probably 
to his illness,] but doubt not that it has been 
in unspeakable, unerring wisdom, that I have 
been thrown, again and again, into the furnace; 
which is, no doubt, designed for my further re- 
finement. Oh ! may all the purposes of the 
Almighty be fulfilled. Oh! what a precious 
state is that, where nothing is wanted but the 
celestial gate to be opened. All praise I ascribe 
unto the Lord's holy name *.' " 

He was enabled to bear, with great patience 
and Christian fortitude, the extreme sufferings 
which he endured within a short time of his 
death ; but, for a few hours before the close, he 
was mercifully relieved from all pain, and his 
end was remarkably peaceful. He died the 
11th of the 10th month, 1825, in the seventy- 
third year of his age. 

# See the Memorial of Thaxted Monthly Meeting. 



19 



CHAP. II. 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

1783. — 4 mo. 27. How different a character 
is he who is fond of procrastinating and delay- 
ing, from him, who, with a wise regard to the 
uncertainty of to-morrow, nobly improves each 
opportunity whilst he has it. 

10 mo. 15. From disobedience and diffi- 
culty, surely I am a dwarf, by not coming 
rightly forward to the duty of the day. How 
main a thing, through all, is an attention to the 
conclusion. Do not some of us labour and toil 
ourselves, to do that from fear, which those 
who are in the life of goodness do from love? 

1784. — 10 mo. 13. Oh that none in ease 
and plenty may contribute, improperly, to make 
it difficult for those in less favoured circum- 
stances to think of the Author of their being 
with gratitude and love. 

1790.— 5 mo. 11. " While ye have the light, 
believe in the light, that ye may be the children 
of the light." It appears a precious thing 
rightly to believe in the light, and to follow it; 



20 MEDITATIONS A'ND REFLECTIONS. 

treading in the just man's path, which is said to 
be " as the shining light, that shineth more 
and more unto the perfect day." It is probable 
that many under our name do not believe in 
this light, nor expect, through faithfulness to its 
discoveries, to be led on further and further to 
the knowledge of the will of God, and to an 
establishment in his peaceable kingdom, even 
whilst in this life : not being like minded with a 
remnant who believe that his kingdom is come; 
and who desire, according to ability, to be 
pressing into it, that they may be faithful 
subjects of it, and that the government may 
be on the shoulders of Him whom they desire 
to serve. 

8 mo. 17. It is a fine thing to be preserved 
from every snare. I believe we may be so en- 
gaged in things which bear the appearance 
of being lawful, and even necessary and incum- 
bent, as to be disqualified from possessing 
that tender, childlike, attentive state of mind, 
which appears so necessary to our growth in a 
divine life, and to a true filial obedience, in all 
things, to the will of our Heavenly Father. 

1792. — 4 mo. 12. Oh ! for a sincere love and 
attachment to that pure and undefiled religion, 
which stands in a filial devotedness of heart 
to do the Lord's will, and in a reverent, holy 
travail of soul, to be made truly acquainted with 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 21 

what his will is; that so we may not be deceived, 
under an apprehension that we are fulfilling the 
divine will, when we are rather frustrating it by 
doing our own. This, I believe, may be the 
case, even in things which may have a good-like 
appearance. 

1799. — 6 mo. 13. I believe it is good for 
young men to make a point of devoting a small 
portion, at least, of every day, to read a little in 
the Bible, and endeavour after a little calm and 
quiet in their minds. Something may be pre- 
sented to their minds in these short seasons of 
inward calm, which may a little nourish and 
cherish the divine life in the soul, and make 
room for the love of God to prevail a little ; and 
so, as this love is cherished and found to grow, 
the love of the world, and earnest desire after it, 
will lessen, and the soul be prepared to take 
its chief delight in something spiritual and 
heavenly. 

6 mo. 22. I feel low, under a sense of my 
w r ant of the necessary qualification for active 
service in the church. Oh ! that there may 
be more of a waiting for the putting forth; 
and a deeper and more frequently-renewed 
travail after dwelling in the pure life of religion, 
and after inward communion with the Lord;— 
to know his will, and receive ability, in the 



22 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

abasement and abnegation of self, to do it to his 
glory, and my own soul's true peace. 

1801. — 9 mo. 14. Oh! that we maybe made 
what the Lord would have us to be ; that is, in 
harmony with his work in the earth; standing 
faithful, according to the present day's adminis- 
tration and service, as many of our worthy prede- 
cessors stood faithful in their day and time. The 
great thing is, to be found in our lot, let the 
state of Truth's cause be whatsoever it may in 
the world. 

I think I see a great danger in Friends getting 
into easy circumstances: it renders them not so 
strong, and able to endure hardness as good 
soldiers. I believe all we have must be at the 
divine disposal, and so felt by us, before we can 
be fully qualified to endure all things that may 
be required of a disciple of Christ, in filling up 
his lot in the militant church. 

1810. — S mo S. I find great proneness in 
the mind to be, every now and then, laying hold 
of something wherein to expect a sort of perma- 
nency of satisfaction, if not of delight ; but I 
doubt my capacity to do this, and yet retain a due 
readiness sincerely to say, " Thy will be done," 
should these things be called for. When we 
use the words, " Thy will be done on earth, as 
it is in heaven," surely we mean to be sincere ; 
but what submission and devotion of heart and 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 23 

will does this imply: no obstruction or resist- 
ance to the divine will " as in heaven." 

1 1 mo. 8. I believe we came into this world 
for the great and momentous purpose of being 
eternally happy. Even the present life, which 
is a mixed and a probationary state, is replete 
with numberless blessings, and precious enjoy- 
ments, along with the attendant trials. And 
our duty and highest interest is, so to encounter 
the trials incident to this present existence, and 
so to participate of the comforts and mercies 
afforded, as that our minds may be capable to 
bless the Lord for his goodness, in giving us a 
being, and preserving us ; and to meet the end 
with resignation and peace. 

11 mo. 10. The true dignity of man — of a 
Christian — consists in endeavouring to fill up 
his duty, in the station which he is permitted to 
fill in this world. There are few, if any situa- 
ations, in which a man who is upright may not 
shine. There is lustre in integrity; and the 
peace which Christ gives to his humble, depen- 
dent children, can reach the humble cottager, as 
well as the inhabitant of the mansion. Many, 
by having their eye out after things not within 
their reach, nor within their sphere, neglect or 
overlook surrounding and intended blessings; 
and so are not thankful, as they might be. 
Thankfulness for mercies received is a very 



Si MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

precious feeling, and gives a sweet relish to 
what we enjoy. Let us, therefore, in the first 
place, be sensible, and feel what we are, and 
diligently occupy and improve our talents and 
gifts, in the fear of the Lord j and desire, above 
all things, to be kept within the reach of his 
blessing; so shall the increase, if permitted, be 
enjoyed without violating the peace of our 
minds. 

1811- — 4 mo. 28. A precious sentiment it is, 
u that the spirit of benevolence, if cherished and 
encouraged, sends forth fresh shoots."' The 
soul is enriched by an increase of benevolence, 
although the means of gratifying or exercising 
it, to an extent adequate to our feelings, may 
not be within our power. 

1812. — I 77W.25. It is a precious thing to 
have a belief and feeling produced in our minds, 
that we are under the divine gracious care and 
protection. Perhaps I have not sustained more 
loss, or religious disadvantage, any way, than I 
have for want of more diligently minding the 
very gentle intimations or calls to inward still- 
ness. A feeling of a connexion with the Foun- 
tain of Good is, above all things, to be prized : 
and this feeling is utterly out of our control or 
command, and consequently to be accepted 
with reverence and cheerfulness, whenever 
vouchsafed. We cannot prize it too much : it 



AlEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 25 

is a treasure in prosperity : it is a treasure in ad- 
versity : it will be emphatically a treasure, when 
the awful moments arrive for us to bid an eter- 
nal farewell to the things of time and sense. 

8 mo. 22. — We are, indeed, fearfully and 
wonderfully made. From the nature of our 
present condition, we see things very differently 
at different times ; perhaps, in part, occasioned 
by our attempting to see and judge when we are 
not in a situation for it. 

10 mo. 2i< Having now, except about three 
weeks, completed my sixtieth year, I may say, 
that in turning over some of the leaves of my 
past life, I may record occasions of reverent and 
humble thankfulness, for having been permitted 
to escape with as little of wounds and bruises as 
I have ; and for the extension of divine goodness 
and mercy towards me, many ways. And I 
think my religious experience, if I may call any 
thing which I have known by that name, has 
been much found in the path of faith, rather 
than of sight. Just enough vouchsafed to pre- 
serve me a believer in the path, and in the power 
which sustains in it. Perhaps this has been 
the manner in which I have been led along, 
because it was best for me, as most calculated to 
keep me humble ; often having nothing good, 
nor knowing how to come at any good; but 
c 



26 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

at times sweetly refreshed with calmness and 
serenity, rather than with the spirit of warm de- 
votion, or any thing like ecstasy or rapture. 

1818.— 1 mo. 22. The great thing appears 
to be, to have the right hunger and thirst after 
righteousness excited and preserved, or main- 
tained, in the mind ; then things which are of 
an earthly, transitory, or unsatisfying nature, 
will be trials, as they prevent a participation 
of the blessed fruits of this righteousness. 
Many are resting in these outward enjoyments, 
as if they were the end of our being; but the 
true Christian, the true believer, is permitted to 
enjoy abundance of blessings, without resting in 
them, and so has the comfort of the life which 
now is, and of that which is to come. 

1814.— 3 mo. 2i. To write of the immediate 
and particular influences of the Spirit of Truth 
upon the mind, in the way we understand and 
believe that subject, is a very delicate business, 
especially when an application is made to parti- 
cular and striking instances; because it may 
often happen that there is really not a capacity 
in the persons addressed, to receive what is ad- 
vanced. Whether the doctrine of clear, imme- 
diate revelation, in the present day, be truth 
and reality, as we most surely believe, or not, it 
must be granted to be possible that it may be 
so ; that is, that it may be truth. 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 27 

4 mo. 1 How many ways to involve the mind 
in a continual something that seems plausible ; 
and so not keep it just in readiness to hear the 
call, to hearken to the voice, or yield to the 
gentle, inclining influence of divine love; an in- 
fluence often so soft and silent, as to be very ? 
very easily put by, quashed, lost, forgotten. 

1815. — 11 mo 2. The occurrence of a great 
variety of things to engage the attention, on 
our own and other people's account, seems to 
fill up much of the time, which is passing over, 
never to return, that I have great occasion to 
be careful to give the preference to those things, 
if I can happily distinguish them, which are of 
the most importance ; because the remaining 
sands in the glass are spending very fast, and, 
most probably, in a few years, at the longest, 
there will be none remaining. Whilst we are 
conflicting with the various infirmities of our 
nature, it is a precious thing, to those who are 
favoured, under all, and through all, to grow 
in religious experience ; not casting away the 
shield, either in the day, or in the night season; 
but in humble trust and dependence on divine 
support, pressing forward, holding fast the pro- 
fession of their faith ; not easily blown about by 
floating opinions, but watching for the manifest- 
ations of that light, and of that calming in- 
fluence which satisfies the soul, and gives ability 
c2 



£8 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS, 

to rejoice, amidst the jeopardies of an earthly 
pilgrimage. 

1817. — 6 mo. When individuals, through 
disobedience or unfaithfulness, have been 
brought into grievous perplexity and embarrass- 
ment, it often happens, that, in condescending 
goodness towards his poor creatures, our Al- 
mighty Father does not will their continuance in 
this wilderness condition, but is graciously dis- 
posed to bring them out of it. But then, if we 
would come forth perfect, his own all-wise pro- 
cess must be submitted to with patience and 
resignation. Whatever the provings and the 
humiliation required, w r e may rest satisfied 
that they are necessary to effect the purpose 
intended ; and if we are at length brought 
through, so as to stand in a state of acceptance 
before Him, and to partake of the peace which 
He gives, we shall not have to say, we have suf- 
fered more for the attainment of the prize, than 
it is found to be worth. Oh ! the unspeakable 
value, to the exercised mind, of patience and 
resignation. 

1818. — 4 mo. 27. conversing this morn- 
ing on the politics of Europe, concluded with 
this beautiful sentiment: " that there is nothing 
substantial and satisfactory but the Supreme 
Good: in it, the deeper we go, and the more 
largely w r e drink, the better and happier we are; 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 29 

whereas, in outward acquirements, if we could 
attain to the summit and perfection of them, the 
very possession and enjoyment palls." 

9 mo. 6. Oh ! the inestimable favour it is, 
to be true believers, and thereby to be made, 
from time to time, partakers of the [spiritual] 
bread which is broken, and the wine which is in 
mercy handed to sustain, to animate, to enliven 
the soul. 

1819. — 6 mo. 15. Oh! for some share of 
inheritance, or fellowship, with those whom the 
Xord delighteth to bless. 

1821.— -1 mo. 5. Many are the favours 
which the tried and exercised servants of the 
Lord have to commemorate, in the course of 
their devotion to his cause. May we all, in our 
various allotments, endeavour to be more and 
more preserved in a state of watchful depen- 
dence upon Him; that so, whether at home or 
abroad, our experience of his goodness, mercy, 
and truth, may be enlarged and confirmed, to 
our own consolation and support, and the conso- 
solation and encouragement of others. 

5 mo. 20. — The Yearly Meeting was largely 
attended, and was a solid, instructive, and inte- 
resting season. As a religious society, we have 
much indeed to be thankful for ; and I do hope 
there is much to be encouraged about, as to the 
state of things among us, although much to 



30 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

lament. Perhaps few things more to be la- 
mented, than that many of us are not enough 
convinced, that there is no advancing in true 
Christian experience, and inheriting the riches, 
and privileges, and consolations of the Gospel 
of Christ, without submitting to his yoke, and 
bearing his cross. 

1822. — 9 wo. 8, Reverently do I wish to ac- 
knowledge the belief, that there is that which 
can richly make amends for every privation, 
heal every breach, cause the wilderness and 
the solitary place to be glad, and the desert to 
rejoice and blossom as the rose. But, oh ! 
for an increase of capacity to look unto this, 
and to walk worthy of receiving such blessing. 

1823. — 2 mo. 23. It is a great privilege, in 
affliction, to be near tender, sympathizing 
friends ; particularly, may I not say, at our time 
of life, when both bodily and mental energy may 
be considered on the decline. And oh ! that, in 
all our trials, both inward and outward, the 
divine arm of everlasting loving-kindness and 
compassion may be underneath, to bear up and 
sustain, and afford us a safe landing at last, be- 
yond the reach of all conflict and all fear. 

7 mo. 21. We require some one to speak 
to freely, and also confidentially. And be- 
sides, how greatly is human comfort, at times 
increased, by a reciprocity of innocent commu- 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 31 

nication. I believe it relieves the more weighty, 
and sometimes, over-anxious cogitations of the 
mind ; and, by so relieving, contributes to our 
resuming them with more effect and advan- 
tage. 

1824. — 3 mo. 7. How much I desire that 
nothing, amidst all the ups and downs that 
occur, may be permitted to prevent us from 
seeking after the love and favour, the support 
and protection of our Heavenly Father. I 
think I scarcely ever found and felt it more 
needful for myself, than now of late time. 

Give what Thou wilt, without Thee we are poor, 
And with Thee, rich, take what Thou wilt away. 

1823.— 10 mo. 12. How earnestly to be de- 
sired is a complete redemption from all selfish- 
ness : then would envy, pride, and wrath, no 
more torment the poor mind. 

1824. — 4 mo. May I, with reverence and 
humility, say, that I believe there is nothing to 
separate the redeemed soul from the spirit of 
the blessed Redeemer ; and that, where He is, 
there will also his servants be. He that is in 
Christ is a new creature ; and being, through 
redeeming love and mercy, brought into Him, 
and continuing in Him, who is the resurrection 
and the life, such shall never die, but remain in 
Him for ever and evermore. 



32 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

8 mo. 1. It is a great comfort, when past 
seventy, to be pretty well; so as to enjoy the 
bounty of kind Providence, and endeavour to 
improve the further portion of time allotted ; so 
that we may, through mercy, be ready for the 
final, awful change, when it comes. 

12 mo. 8. How unspeakably worthy our 
love, our allegiance, our seeking after, and our 
more frequent communion, is the Spirit of 
Truth. How ought it to be [sought after] 
from day to day, and through the day, so as to 
raise and bear up our minds above the things 
of time, even whilst we are necessarily en- 
gaged in them ; seeing they are all very uncer- 
tain, and we may be taken from them, or they 
from us, very unexpectedly. In such case, to 
have our minds previously well acquainted with 
divine love, and, as it were, enwrapped with it— 
what a treasure ! 

1825. — 3 mo. What a fine thing it is to be 
preserved in the humility, simplicity, and stabi- 
lity which Truth gives to its sincere and de- 
voted disciples. Oh! for a more general, deep 
acquaintance with the value of true quiet, where 
the thirst for change and novelty is not felt ; but 
a sincere waiting and desire is known, after 
that which is not of man, nor of the strength 
and abilities of man, but of the Lord. Here, I 
believe, the creature will be kept low, diffident, 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. So 

and fearful of itself; and more ready and de- 
sirous to be taught and instructed, than to 
fancy itself qualified to instruct others. 

The creation of the world and of man 

was, and is, a marvellous display of the divine 
glory ; and the highest dignity and happiness of 
man, is to live in unison with this effect of the 
divine will and purpose, that w r e may not miss of 
intended good and enjoyment, which it seems 
are only to be this way come at. Our Heavenly 
Father wants nothing. He is perfect; his 
glory is perfect ; and this or that act is only a 
display of such part of his glory, as his infinite 
wisdom thinks meet, and for the best, at any 
particular period, or on any particular occasion. 

The expression of beautiful sentiments, 

and the reading and approving of them, afford 
a delight to the mind ; but do not always deepen 
us in religious sensibility, or increase our love for 
the simplicity of the Truth as it is in Jesus, or 
advance us in the consequent knowledge and 
experience of heavenly good. In contemplating 
this subject, I have remembered the import of 
a few expressions of an eminent minister: " We 
love the splendid, pleasant picture : but this is 
an easy purchase, inj comparison of the deep- 
hid, inestimable pearl of substantial truth." 

»■ "V This morning I have a somewhat lurnl- 
c 5 



34 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

nous view of the nature and preciousness of 
gospel ministry, and other rightly-religious ex- 
ercises. God is the inexhaustible fountain of 
all good: there is no goodness but what comes 
from Him; consequently, nothing for poor 
human nature to plume itself upon. This di- 
vine power goes forth in such manner, time, and * 
degree, as is consistent with its own infinite wis- 
dom and goodness ; in displays of beneficence, 
mercy, and blessing to its creatures : sometimes 
in immediate communications of light, life, and 
divine virtue and sweetness to the souls of 
individuals, for their own advancement in the 
path of salvation; and sometimes in precious 
gifts of qualification, for the benefit of others, 
the edification of the church, and for other reli- 
gious services. 

To have a mind preserved in such a 

state as to be susceptible of the impressions of 
heavenly good, I esteem of primary and vital 
importance. To those who desire to witness 
the fulness of gospel privilege and blessing, 
this is very essential; seeing that there are 
seasons in which such a sweetness and precious 
solemnity are to be witnessed, as is comparable, 
in degree, to heaven upon earth ; as well as that 
it is our Christian duty to lead others, by our 
example and influence, to the same enjoyment. 
By how many and how various means 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 35 

do we get broken down, and gradually pre- 
pared for our eternal separation from this frail 
and uncertain state of being; and how exceed- 
ingly is it to be desired that we may all so im- 
prove the time of health and bodily ability, as 
that, when sickness, pain, and affliction are 
measured out to us, we may be favoured with 
that sweetness and peace which bear up the 
mind above the waves, and enable us to say, the 
rod as well as the staff of the Lord's goodness, 
are our comfort and our rejoicing. 

Convince me, more and more, O Lord! 

I beseech thee, that thy time is the only time 
for true refreshment and comfort to the poor 
soul ; and that every visitation of thy love and 
life is exceedingly precious, and not to be trifled 
with or passed by, as to a more convenient 
season of mine. 

Grant, I pray thee, that the chief study of my 
life may be to be found in a state of readiness to 
receive, adopt, and yield to every of thy gracious 
offers of love and life; that so my poor soul may 
indeed have a share in the spiritual kingdom of 
Thee, the living and true God, even in this life ; 
and so come increasingly to know that Thou 
art the only true riches, and that every thing 
else is fleeting and uncertain. 

Remove, I pray thee, by the gentle showers 
of thy celestial rain, the hardness of my heart, 



36 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

and make it very susceptible of the impressions 
of thy Holy Spirit ; that I may be indeed thy 
servant, and that Thou mayst delight to bless 
me, and increase my knowledge and experience 
in thy precious truth, and in Thyself, the only 
and enduring treasure of the soul. 

Oh adorable Goodness, Wisdom, and 

Power ! preserve me so, I pray Thee, that 
nothing may deprive me of the capacity to en- 
joy Thee, according to the manner and degree 
in which it may please Thee, in thy mercy, to 
make thyself known to thy poor, unworthy, 
but depending creature, in time and to all 
eternity. 



37 



CHAP. III. 



EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS AND OTHER 
PAPERS, RELATING TO THE CHARACTER 
AND PRINCIPLES OF OUR RELIGIOUS 
SOCIETY. 



Some Remarks on the religious Principles of the 
People called Quakers, as to Wars and Fightings. 

It becomes those who profess faith towards 
God, and who, in obedience to what they be- 
lieve to be their religious duty, differ in some 
things from other professors, to be willing, in 
meekness and fear, to render a reason for that 
difference. And as there may be many who 
have not been fully informed of the grounds on 
which the people called Quakers, ever since 
they were a people, have borne a testimony 
against Wars and Fightings, it may be accept- 
able to some serious inquirers, to know a little 
what those grounds are. 

1st. They believe that the happiness of man- 
kind, in an especial manner, depends upon their 



38 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

living in the fear of God ; walking in obedience 
to the secret manifestations of Truth, through 
that divine principle of light and grace given to 
every man to profit with ; forsaking every thing 
which this divine principle manifests to be evil ; 
and following after every thing which it mani- 
fests to be righteous, holy, and acceptable to 
God our Creator, our beneficent Preserver, and 
final Judge. 

2nd. They believe that the Christian religion 
is a religion of universal love ; and that, as the 
minds of men are, through divine assistance, 
gathered into this love, they become qualified 
to fulfil that injunction of Christ Jesus, the 
author of the Christian religion : " Love your 
enemies ; bless them that curse you ; do good 
to them that hate you." They believe that this 
truly noble and happy state of mind is not at- 
tainable in our own will and time; but that, as 
mankind yield to the secret influences of that 
divine principle of light and grace in the heart, 
alluded to, they are favoured, more and more, to 
gain an ascendency over self-love, and to wit- 
ness an enlargement of heart, so as to desire the 
good of all, and that all may be brought to par- 
take of that happiness which results from the 
favour and blessing of Almighty God. 

3rd. They believe, that as this divine love 
has full place in the minds of any people, the 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 39 

understanding becomes enlightened, so as clear- 
ly to see that all contention is out of the Truth, 
and out of the way of substantial happiness. 
And a desire accompanies these, that no part of 
their conduct may contribute to discord in any 
shape, either between families, between neigh- 
bours, or between nations ; but being made 
sensible that all contention is evil, and that the 
continuance thereof interrupts the comfort of 
mankind, they desire to be preserved from doing 
any thing to keep it alive ; and, consequently, to 
manifest by their conduct, that they believe it 
more consistent for the professed followers of 
Christ to take no active part in war; because 
war brings grievous calamity upon the earth, 
destroys the lives of our fellow-creatures, and 
tends to cherish that spirit of animosity and 
confusion which is inconsistent with the Gospel 
of peace. 

4th. They believe that passage of the Sacred 
Writings to be particularly encouraging to those 
who profess faith in God, and in his divine pro- 
vidence and protection : " As the mountains are 
round about Jerusalem, so the Lord is round 
about his people, from henceforth even for 
ever ;" and that the strongest bulwark to any 
nation, is the favour and protection of Him, 
who can save with equal ease in times of great 



40 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

perplexity, as in seasons of less outward dif- 
ficulty. 

5th. They believe that the way to obtain this 
favour and protection, is to walk faithfully be- 
fore Him ; reverently depending upon Him, and 
in all things desiring that his will may be the 
rule and government of our lives. And they 
believe that, for a nation so walking and so de- 
pending, there is greater safety in this trust in 
the divine arm of power, than in the strength of 
armies; and that it is beautifully consistent for 
those in any nation who are thus convinced and 
thus believing, to endeavour, in humility and 
reverence, to cast their care upon Him, desiring 
to be resigned to every dispensation of his pro- 
vidence; and that, whatever happens, they may 
be found clear in his sight, of having contributed 
,to the distress, the unspeakable distress and 
bloodshed of their fellow-creatures. 



Extracts from Letters, $c. 

1815. — 12 mo. 29. I am not aware that 
Friends, as a Society, rate too highly the 
ground on which they are called to stand ; al- 
though, unhappily, too many of us do not main- 
tain our standing. And I think we may safely 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 41 

believe this, without ascribing any thing to 
the creature, or magnifying the people ; but 
reverently acquiescing with and acknowledging 
the Power whence the gifts and ability proceed. 
If, by a mighty hand, and by a stretched-out 
arm, our predecessors were brought forth from 
amidst the different denominations of profes- 
sors, and enabled to bear faithful and undeviat- 
ing testimony to the spirituality of the Gospel — 
to the necessity of following the Captain of sal- 
vation, whithersoever He is pleased to lead by 
his light and truth manifested in the secret of 
the soul ; in other words, in the path of self- 
denial and the daily cross — to the necessity of 
avoiding all conformity with formality, all un- 
righteous conformity to the maxims, policy, 
fashions, and friendships of the w r orld— to hold 
up a standard against wars and against oaths, and 
a testimony to the freedom of gospel-ministry, 
and to that worship which, laying aside all rites 
and ceremonies, as constituted and proper ap- 
pendages to the gospel dispensation, is per- 
formed in spirit and in truth: — If they have 
been brought to the blessed and glorious avowal, 
" That in pure, silent worship, we dwell under 
the holy Anointing, and feel Christ to be our 
Shepherd ; that here the best of Teachers mi- 
nisters to the several conditions of his flock, and 
the soul receives, immediately from the diving 



42 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

Fountain, that with which it is nourished: — 
If this people have been brought thus far, sure- 
ly it becomes the living among them, in the 
depth of humility, reverence, and fear, to say, 
as a collective body, " He that is mighty hath 
done for us great things, and holy is his name ;"— ** 
has placed us in the midst of many mercies, in 
a state of awful responsibility. Are we not 
brought to the acknowledgment, that " the 
opening of an inward, silent worship in this 
nation, is a precious opening;" and that it is 
our duty to walk answerably to the nature of 
an inward communion with God, that so no 
stumbling-block, through us, may be laid in the 
way of others ? The awfulness of the respon- 
sibility does not annul the truth of it ; and I be- 
lieve it is unsafe to flinch from or deny it. 

I rejoice greatly in the spread of the Holy 
Scriptures, and in the institution of the British 
and Foreign Bible Society, as a present, highly- 
favoured means of this spread. I am concern- 
ed, by word and example, to encourage Bible- 
meetings ; and I think am never so comfortable, 
if I am prevented attending those to which, as 
appertaining to our district, I may be said to 
belong : I mean, our quarterly committees, and 
our anniversary at Saffron Walden. But I see 
great cause, indeed, for Friends to be very 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 43 

watchful on such occasions. How conspicuous 
seems to be the fondness to give applause, if 
not to receive it; to say nothing of so liberally 
ascribing to the Bible, that which can rightly 
be ascribed only to the Divine Spirit. How 
humble, how deep in travail, then, had Friends 
need be, that they may be enabled to keep their 
ground — to support, yea, exalt their testimony 
to the necessity of help and strength from the 
Lord, for the advancement of his own cause. I 
believe they may be greatly useful in such as- 
semblies, and, by the savour of their spirits, 
tend at times, more or less, to season others. 
But how great is the danger, lest, instead of 
communicating strength to others, we lose, in 
degree, our hold of the steadfastness and beauty 
of the pure and unchangeable Truth. 

I believe, in a meeting for discipline, rightly 
gathered and rightly preserved, the united ex- 
ercise of living members is, that Truth may 
prevail over all. To a meeting thus circum- 
stanced, I believe at times, a very precious sen- 
sibility is vouchsafed, and Friends travel on in 
the simplicity of filial fear and reverence ; and 
when a nomination is depending, Friends be- 
come, at times, constrained, at other times feel 
a tender, brotherly, sensible, freedom, to 
mention a name, without daring to stamp it 



44 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

high ; but, in resignation, leaving it to make 
its way, or otherwise, as the Master pleases ; 
and leaving it with the meeting, whether the 
right savour attends the expression, and whe- 
ther there may be a right capacity in the no- 
minee, to accept or decline. Thus Friends feel 
one for another, and the bond of tender gospel- 
affection is preserved ; and the travail for the 
cause maintained, and its prosperity sought, 
beyond all other considerations. Oh ! one can 
seem to conceive what a precious thing it is, 
when Friends, in their meetings for discipline, 
can rightly bow under the solemnizing influence ; 
not stamping any thing they do, high ; but fear- 
ing, in the least degree, to wound the precious 
cause, or contribute to disperse the precious 
solemnity, either by speaking or by withholding. 
I speak not, very, very far from it, as one that has 
attained, but as a believer in the validity of these 
things ; and in the favoured condition of rightly- 
gathered, and rightly-preserved meetings for 
discipline. 

1817. — 6 mo. Whether we be ministers, 
elders, overseers, or of whatever class, I believe 
we should mind where we are ; and rather bear 
a burden, perhaps rightly brought upon us, 
from sympathy, or the operation and influence 
of the Spirit, than venture to relieve ourselves, 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 46 

when circumstances and the want of opportunity 
forbid. I believe, in a large meeting, a diversity 
of exercise may be excited in lively-spirited 
Friends, which it would be very inexpedient to 
bring forth in words. But I suppose that the 
weighty, deeply-attentive, patient mind, is per- 
mitted to discover the right time for moving ; 
and then, the baptizing influence being dwelt 
under in the exercise of the gift, the meeting 
feels the precious effect. But I rather think, 
that some who have a gift in the ministry, miss 
it at times, in the exercise of it, for want of un- 
derstanding, at the time, the state of the meet- 
ing 5 perhaps, partly, from being involved in 
their own exercise. When a meeting is bap- 
tized under a living ministry, and the minister 
sits down, it is a nice thing indeed to make an 
addition ; at least, before a suitable space has 
been allowed. As the end of all true ministry 
is to bring the hearers to an abiding under the 
influence of the Spirit of Christ, we should re- 
joice when this is in any considerable degree 
produced by the ministry of any Friend ; and 
be very careful not to step in, in a way to dissi- 
pate the solemnity, or remove the sense which 
has thus profitably been begotten. At the 
same time, it is very desirable that no rightly- 
appointed offering should be prevented ; and 
the diversity of states and conditions is to be 



48 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

remembered. So that it is indeed a mystery; 
and a very weighty thing is living, baptizing, 
ministry. 

I remember, whilst on this subject, a remark 
of dear Henry Tuke, in our quarterly meeting, 
a pretty many years ago, that he thought 
hardly a greater evil could befall us, as a reli- 
gious society, than an unbaptized ministry. As 
to offerings in the ministry, rendered unseason- 
able from the circumstance of a meeting being 
in measure baptized by previous ministry, I 
believe, solid, judicious elders might be greatly 
helpful to our dear ministering friends of less 
experience : they are much to be felt for, and 
so are meetings. 

1821. — 5 mo. 19. My mind so sincerely 
entertains the belief, that all good cometh from 
God, and therefore must be patiently and rcve- 
vently waited for, that I can heartily join in 
desire, that, in our meetings for discipline, the 
creature may be kept humble, simple, and de- 
pendent ; looking for the blessing on its feeble 
endeavours, unto Him who is the Alpha and 
Omega, the inexhaustible source bath of 
strength and consolation. It behoves the 
rightly exercised, to be especially careful to 
keep their posts in such meetings ; that nothing 
draw them off their guard, or betray them into 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 47 

movements unworthy of the faithful followers 
of the Lamb. The exercised frame of their spi- 
rits might be sweetly encouraging to younger, 
well-inclined Friends, and thus strength be pro- 
gressively gained to the meeting. I am not 
sure whether it is possible, by words, to con- 
vince the gainsayers, if many such there be, 
that our meetings for discipline are divinely 
owned and crowned ; but if those who know 
the Truth, and love it, would keep their ranks 
faithfully, with meekness and lowliness, yet in 
stability and gospel- beauty, it would, perhaps, 
go further than any thing else ; and I believe 
these, rightly engaged, would be blessed in 
meetings, and meetings blessed in them. 

I think, in meetings for discipline, made up 
of a great variety of states and conditions, it is 
a precious thing that we endeavour to gather 
into silence ; and may we not consider the so- 
lemnity which sometimes prevails, to be like a 
mantle cast over us, preparatory to entering on 
the business, and to proceeding in order, as the 
subjects successively rise before us ; and per- 
haps, in the condescension of Him who knows 
the circumstances and state of every mind, it 
may be permitted, that there should be an en- 
tering into the concerns of the meeting, by 
many, or by most present, according to their 
present capacity, growth, and attainment. And 



48 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

in a degree of integrity and simplicity, without 
much religious experience in some, there may 
be a desire that the right thing may be pro- 
moted ; and by these, a few words expressed, 
without offence or wound to the meeting. 

1822. — 11 mo. 17. May we not with reve- 
rence believe, when the Most High was pleased, 
in the going forth of his wisdom and of his 
mercy, to gather the religious society of which 
we have the unspeakable privilege of being 
members, that he proposed to bring them forth 
as a people, wholly separated from the apos- 
tasy, which had previously so overwhelmed the 
Christian world; giving, in a wonderful degree, 
light, and power to discern, exhibit, and faith- 
fully testify against the spirit, and the fruits of 
that apostasy : — in other words, to call forth a 
people who should aim at perfection, in accord- 
ance with our blessed Saviour's injunction : 
" Be ye, therefore, perfect, even as your Father 
which is in heaven is perfect:" — who should 
aim at a state of perfect acceptance with Him ; 
compromising nothing ; abating nothing; but 
pressing on, through all discouragement and 
opposition, towards the mark for the prize — the 
blessed prize of unalloyed peace. 

If this were the case, can we wonder that 
they were very quick of discernment, respecting 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 49 

any thing that came in their way, which was 
either in root or in branch, appertaining to the 
apostasy? As they sought the glory of God, 
they were very zealous against what they be- 
lieved derogatory therefrom. As they loved 
the truth as it is in Jesus, they v/ere grieved 
and offended at any thing which they thought 
militated against the purity and simplicity of it. 
The persecutions and trials which they met 
with, joined with the convictive evidence of 
Truth in their own minds, tended greatly to 
wean them from the world, and to fix their at- 
tention closely on promoting the glory of God ; 
therein securing their own happiness, and con- 
ducing to the happiness of others in this life, 
and, finally, in that kingdom whereunto the 
robber and destroyer cannot come. 

Can we, without tender emotion, contemplate 
what different conclusions will be produced re- 
specting the same subjects, where, on one hand, 
a people are zealously, yet reverently and hum- 
bly, pursuing the glory of God, as the principal 
thing, or with an undivided aim ; or where, on 
the other hand, the spirit, the maxims, and the 
enjoyments of the world, are claiming a very 
considerable proportion of the attention of the 
mind, and the strength of its faculties ? In the 
former case, how nice, tender, and scrupulous, 



50 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES, &C. 

that nothing be admitted, trenching at all upon 
their allegiance to God, and their testimony 
against whatever has sprung from the apostasy, 
or militates against the spirit of the Gospel of 
Christ; endeavouring to be faithful in every 
point, and being exceedingly jealous of what- 
ever is either decidedly inconsistent with the 
purity of the Gospel, or that is of such a com- 
plexion. In the latter case, what nice distinc- 
tions are sought up, and found out ; what subtle 
reasonings, tending to lessen suffering — to abate 
the distinction between the humble, devoted fol- 
lower, and those who appear willing to run the 
hazard of that which may eventually distress, if 
not lay waste, the Society ; keeping as near the 
world's maxims as they can, with tolerable satis- 
faction; and having, perhaps, the right eye 
towards it, and the left eye towards the king- 
dom everlasting. 



51 



CHAP. IV. 



LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, ADDRESSED 
TO THOSE IN EARLY LIFE. 



Tender Counsel to the Young. 

In looking towards the young men in our 
religious Society, and esteeming them a pre- 
cious, and very interesting part of the body, I 
consider their preservation in the midst of the 
dangers of the world, a most worthy object of 
attention. I believe some of them, from cir- 
cumstances which occur, are led, at an early 
age, into temptations and deviations, that eventu- 
ally tend to their perplexity and distress ; and 
that they, in many instances, lose a state of 
comparative innocence, before they are rightly 
aware of the value of themselves, and how 
much the sweetness and true enjoyment of life, 
are increased by humbly walking in the fear of 
God ; not in slavish, but filial fear ; for He is 
our gracious Father, and the fountain of all 
blessing. 

d 2 



52 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, 

I am inclined, in affectionate desire that they 
may not forfeit the substance of comfort, through 
a pursuit of the shadow, to recommend the fol- 
lowing short hints : 

I believe it is good for young men, to make a 
point of devoting a small portion of time — a few 
moments — every day, to read a little in the 
Holy Scriptures, and to endeavour to yield their 
minds, in sincerity, into a short calm and quiet. 
For, in divine loving-kindness, something may 
be vouchsafed and communicated, in these 
short seasons of mental recollection, which will, 
in degree, nourish and cherish the Divine Life 
in the soul, so that the Love of God will be felt 
to prevail a little ; and as this love is entertained, 
and found to increase, the love of the world, 
and the anxious desire after its enjoyments, 
will lessen, and the mind be prepared to take 
its chief delight in something spiritual and 
heavenly. This experience will prove a per- 
manent treasure. 



Thoughts on Company and Books. 

I wish to feel for young people, under the 
various temptations and trials to which the 
years of inexperience are exposed. They are 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 53 

naturally and reasonably inclined to learn, and 
to accomplish themselves in ornament and use- 
fulness. To this end, as well as for temporary 
gratification, they value and prefer company 
and books. Most of them, perhaps, would say 
good company and good books ; and it is a deli- 
cate and very interesting matter to determine in 
what degree to discourage or to countenance 
this inclination. It is an unspeakable favour, 
however, early in life, to know, that, in the 
silence and retirement of the mind, there is 
instruction and comfort to be met with, beyond 
what can be expected, either from even good 
company, or from good books. It is observable, 
by the attentive mind, that there may be an 
enjoyment of books and of company which 
strengthens us in the love, esteem, and pursuit 
of this silence and retirement ; and there is an 
enjoyment of good books and good company, 
which weakens and enfeebles the mind, in its 
capacity to love, pursue, and enjoy this profit- 
able silence and meditation. Here, then, dear 
young friend, whosoever thou art, is the point 
of wisdom. Mind, day by day, and through 
all, an inward sense respecting things, and thou 
mayst be favoured to perceive what thy duty 
calls for at thy hands, as to thy outward, tem- 
poral, domestic, or social occupations ; and then 
what time thou canst properly spare for company 



54 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, 

and books, and how much of either thou canst 
enjoy, with religious benefit to thy own mindc 
Much company and many books, or much read- 
ing, have often a 'direct tendency to draw the 
attention of the mind outward, instead of in- 
ward. And here there is need of wise discri- 
mination. If thy company, or thy reading, tends 
to give thee a humbling view of thyself, and of 
thy many frailties and infirmities, and to in- 
crease the ardour of thy mind, in the pursuit of 
divine help, of inward quietude, and sweet, en- 
riching peace, thou mayst conclude so much of 
it is good for thee ; but if either of them be 
such, or indulged in to such a degree, as un- 
profitably to occupy thy mind, and rather indis- 
pose than encourage thee in the love of inward 
recollection and meditation, thou mayst safely 
conclude there is a snare in it, and that there is 
danger lest the durable and precious substance 
may be lost in the pursuit of the shadow. 



The three following Letters were written to young 
men who lived with W. G. as apprentices. 

1801. — 9 mo. Being favoured to desire that 
thou, and the other young men, may be kept in 
a reverent, tender fear of offending the Lord 



ADDRESSED TO TPIE YOUNG. 55> 

your Maker in any thing, I seemed most easy to 
attempt a few lines to thee, after this manner, 
without any wish to write much, but so as to 
reach the divine witness in thy mind. 

I tenderly request thee to weigh these re- 
marks solidly ; and at such time as thy mind is 
most favoured with good desires for thyself, 
and at such times as thou art favoured to crave 
that, when thou hast done with the things of time, 
thou mayst be found worthy to have a place in 
the mansions of eternal rest and peace. Now, I 
believe that the way to be truly happy, is to 
endeavour to do the will of God. The way to 
enjoy the blessings intended for his dear chil- 
dren, is to serve Him, and obey Him in child- 
like simplicity ; to dwell under a sense that He 
is our Father ; and to look up to Him, as He 
that can provide for us, take care of us, lead us, 
feed us, and keep us. To have this sense 
upon the mind is very precious, and is what I 
crave for me and mine, and those under my care. 
Here self is gradually reduced, and kept under ; 
and we are made sensible, that there is no safety 
for us, whatever may be our attainments, but 
as we are doing His will; and as we are mea- 
surably clothed with a tender, filial fear, lest we 
should be found doing any thing that would 
deprive us of a sense of His love upon our spi- 
rits. As this is not at our command, so we are 



5G LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, 

led to prize it, when He is pleased to favour 
with it ; and when it is withdrawn, and we are 
left barren, and poor, and stripped, and have 
nothing, as it were, to lean upon, and no feeling 
of inward support and comfort, oh ! what poor 
things we are, let things in the outward be as 
they may, ever so fair and flourishing ; they are 
fleeting and uncertain, wearing away one day 
after another, and leaving us in an unprofitable 
state, if we have not something within to ani- 
mate and enliven our minds. As we come 
to make a right estimate of things, and are 
favoured to love the Truth above all, and to 
value a sweet and quiet mind, and the feeling 
of divine love upon our spirits, above the tran- 
sient enjoyments of time, we come to feel and 
to know, that nothing is a little thing to us, 
which prevents us from drawing nigh to the 
Lord in our hearts, and offering up ourselves 
to Him in secret dedication, [saying,] " Here 
I am : make me to be thine, and preserve me 
from offending Thee in thought, word, or 
deed ; that so Thou mayst be mercifully 
pleased to enrich my mind with the light of 
thy countenance, and to favour me with thy 
life-giving presence. 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 57 

As time is very uncertain to us all, both 

young and old, and we know not whether ano- 
ther opportunity so favourable may present, I 
feel a tender inclination, now, at parting, to tell 
thee, that I sincerely wish thee well ; and under 
that influence, to call thy attention to thy own 
immediate situation, that, by a discreet and 
timely consideration, thou mayst avoid some 
of the dangers to which I think thou art likely 
to be exposed. Thy time of life, and the time 
of a young man's engaging in the world for 
himself, is attended with many snares. Gilded 
prospects, which are calculated to deceive the 
inexperienced mind, if not strictly on its watch, 
are apt to present; and a state of innocence 
liable to be interrupted, if not lost, which cannot 
be recovered but through deep suffering. 

I apprehend thou art favoured to have a 
mother tenderly exercised in her spirit for thy 
good. This is a first-rate blessing. This was 
my case ; and the care and counsel of my dear 
mother, when I was very young, I believe, made 
impressions which have never been erased. 
She taught me early to know that I was not my 
own, nor at my own disposal ; and that, if I 
would be safe and happy, I must look to the 
Lord for counsel. Now this I wish for thee. 
In all thy movements, be sure keep this in 
d 5 



58 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, 

mind. It will, I trust, be an inestimable trea- 
sure to thee ; confirming, in thy happy experi- 
rience, that the fear of the Lord is a fountain of 
life, preserving from the snares of death. 
When temptations, of whatever description, 
assail, forget not the fear of the Lord; that 
thereby thou mayst be favoured to witness 
preservation, and escape. Be in earnest to be 
good ; — the only way to be happy. If, through 
unwatchfulness at any time, thou art in any de- 
gree overcome, be sure thou be willing to come 
under condemnation, and bear the chastening 
hand for disobedience: be willing to endure 
affliction for transgression, and do not flinch 
from it. Let it have its appointed season ; 
and the dispensation of condemnation will have 
a refining tendency, and thou wilt be likely 
to come up from the washing-pool, from time 
to time, with increased strength to resist suc- 
ceeding temptations. We must not expect 
to be exempt from these. Bearing this reproof 
and chastisement will give thy mind weight 
and solidity; and thou wilt, I trust, come to 
be less and less susceptible of the allurements 
of the trifling things of the world, and thou 
wilt be more and more enabled to set a right 
value upon things. Unlawful things, and tri- 
fling things, will come to have their proper 
character stamped upon them, in thy view; 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 59 

and thou wilt be likely to increase in thy love 
for quietness, watchfulness, and meditation. 
As we are sincere and in earnest, although 
the root of evil as well as of good lies deep in 
the heart, we may find that, as things of an 
outward nature are permitted to be snares 
and baits to our minds ; so, many things of an 
outward nature are permitted to be religiously 
helps and comforts, and a strength to us, in our 
journey through time to an everlasting home. 
Thou wilt find that it is good to prefer the 
acquaintance of those who, thou believest, sin- 
cerely fear God, and to read such books as tend 
to bring our attention home, and to strengthen 
this fear in our own hearts. Light and frothy 
company, and light and frothy books, though 
specious, thou wilt find wound the peace of the 
mind, estrange it from the fear of which I have 
been speaking, and indispose to seriousness and 
heavenly-mindedness. 

God is the source and centre of happiness. 
In proportion as we yield ourselves to things 
which the Light he has afforded us testifies 
against, in the secret of the soul, we go from 
Him, and go into confusion; and so miss of the 
mercies, the favours, the consolations, which 
He is permitting those to partake of, who dread 
nothing so much as losing his divine appro- 
bation, and the sweetness resulting from it 



60 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, 

Do not be halting, and double-minded, I en- 
treat thee; but yield thyself up to be a consist- 
ent Friend, to speak, act, and appear as such, 
and I believe thou wilt be blessed. 

When things present, bring them to the 
Light: if they will bear the test, we may con- 
clude they make for lasting peace ; if they will 
not, they make for perplexity, and, sooner or 
later, for distress. 

My heart desires the illumination and strength- 
ening of thy mind, to follow that which adorns 
the humble Christian, and to flee that which 
leavens into the spirit and friendship of the 
world, and ends in disappointment and sorrow. 

Dear now is the time. Learn to weigh 

things correctly: often consult the pure witness 
in thy own heart: mark well and attentively 
what it leads to, and what it leads from; and 
may the blessing of preservation attend thee, is 
my heart's desire. 

Thy well-wishing and affectionate friend, 

W. G. 



As thou art about finishing thy appren- 
ticeship, I have had it at times on my mind 
to express a few things in writing before 
we part ; as what is written sometimes remains 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 61 

longer under notice than what is spoken, and 
may be occasionally referred to, in moments of 
affectionate recollection of those with whom, 
and under whose care, so considerable and so 
important a portion of time has been passed. 

I have no reason to think that thy coming to 
live with us was wrong ; and I think it no small 
privilege that we have got through, so as to 
love one another at the conclusion ; and I hope 
that, as we are preserved to desire well for our- 
selves, in the best sense, we shall continue, at 
seasons, to remember one another with pleasure 
and affection. 

As to business, I hope thou hast attained a 
pretty competent knowledge of it; such as will, 
with humility and industry, under the divine 
blessing, promote thy getting, in due time, com- 
fortably established for thyself. But my prin- 
cipal object, at present, is thy preservation out 
of those things which hinder or retard an ad- 
vancement in the Truth; and if we miss of that, 
how transitory, and of how little value, is every 
thing else. 

Thou hast much to be thankful for in the in- 
estimable favour of a religious parent, who has 
solicitously cared for thy best welfare; and I 
think thy mind has been, through outward and 
inward means, so imbued with a sense of what 
is good and excellent, that, if thou art properly 



62 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS, 

watchful, thou wilt be blessed with an increase 
of spiritual knowledge and spiritual strength, 
and of capacity to overcome those propensities 
to which by nature we are prone. In order to 
this, I beseech thee in an especial manner, to be 
careful what company thou joinest with. I 
think thy own happiness much depends upon 
it. It was rather before thy time of life that my 
mind became seriously arrested, and a desire 
raised in me after the knowledge of substantial 

good. This good, dear , is to be known, 

I believe, by submission to the cross of Christ, 
under which tl;e divine light breaks in upon 
the mind with sweet instruction, to our edifica- 
tion and help. Though in this process our 
own Mills are frequently opposed, yet it is here 
we are made acquainted with that which no- 
thing else can give us. I believe the experience 
of many has proved this to be true. Suffer, 
therefore, nobody to deceive thee, or tempt 
thee to believe that the-re is any other way to 
be happy. In submission to the refining dis- 
cipline of the cross of Christ, the mind is pre- 
pared to receive good from the divine hand, 
both inward and outward good, and to receive 
it with true relish and with thankfulness; and I 
think we shall not become happy without it. 
As the mind, by this refining submission, is 
brought into a state of fitness to receive, I be- 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 63 

lieve that divine mercy and goodness is ready to 
bestow; and here a precious state is known. 
And as thou seest things thus, thou wilt find 
that it must, indeed, be good company, to be 
better than no company; and thou wilt find 
that too many young men, as well as older ones, 
are too much unacquainted with the state I have 
mentioned, and are more in speculation and 
reasoning than in living experience. But I en- 
treat thee to keep to thy own business, and the 
peace of thy own mind ; that is more to thee 
than any thing else : keeping steadily to meet- 
ings, and to the practices and conduct of faith- 
ful Friends. This will, I belie ve, tend to keep thee 
in favour both with God and man ; and I believe 
that thou hardly needest fear doing well also 
in outward things. And as thou art favoured, 
more and more, to know what inward peace and 
quiet are, thou wilt be more afraid of those who 
know not what the Truth is by experience. The 
way of Truth, I believe, increases in brightness 
as we walk on faithfully in it, in humble submis- 
sion to its discoveries. Here the creature is 
abased and kept in a teachable state, and those 
discoveries made, and that establishment known, 
which are no otherwise to be come at. There- 
fore mind, I beseech thee, the discoveries of 
Truth; and if, through unwatchfulness or infir- 
mity, or natural propensity, thou at any time 



64 EXTRACT OF A LETTER, 

slippest aside, be diligent, by repentance and 
submission to the rod, to get thy peace restored. 
Oh! the danger of letting commissions and 
omissions gather one upon another, for want of 
coming under the washing, purifying dispensa- 
tion of the Spirit of Truth. How many have 
wofully missed it herein, and incurred a har- 
dened state of mind, unsusceptible of the ten- 
dering impressions of good. But I desire thy 
preservation, and that thou mayst know an esta- 
blishment in the blessed, unchangeable Truth. 
In true love, 

Thy sincere Friend, 

W. G. 



Extract of a Letter to two Young Men. 

1815. — 6 7720. 9. I think my sincere desire 
is, that the Father of mercies may take you and 
preserve you under his gracious care; and so 
renew, from time to time, his enlightening influ- 
ence on your minds, as to enable you clearly to 
perceive the transcendent excellency that there 
is in the Truth ; and to engage you to prefer 
it, and your advancement in it, to every other 
thing. It is cause of real satisfaction to me, 
that you are capable of business, and inclined 



TO TWO YOUNG MEN. G5 

to be industrious and persevering. I think 
your attention to these lawful and commendable 
pursuits, under due regulations and restrictions, 
may not only prevent your active minds from 
being drawn out after things less innocent, 
but furnish you with ability to be useful to 
others. Nevertheless, I wish to remind and 
warn you, that temptations will not be wanting: 
the enemies of your own house, the propensities 
of our nature, will closely beset you in one 
shape or other, in one direction or other, adapt- 
ing the bait to the circumstances, disposition, 
turn, and inclination. 

Under this persuasion, how solicitous I am 
that you may be circumspect, and maintain a 
daily watch ; so that preservation may be ex- 
perienced on every hand. Often bear in mind, 
I tenderly entreac you, that our great and boun- 
tiful Creator's view, in the formation of his crea- 
ture man, was to make him completely happy, 
by the enjoyment of Himself, his own presence, 
his own love, light, and peace : so that our 
greatest wisdom is to aim continually at this 
point, which is the great end of our being. If 
we are thus preserved, we shall endeavour to 
bear the trials, afflictions, and disappointments 
of this life, in such a manner as may bring us 
day by day, nearer, and nearer, and nearer to 
God, who is the perpetual fountain of happiness 



66 EXTRACT OF A LETTER, &C. 

and of consolation. In like manner, we shall en- 
deavour to enjoy prosperity and the comforts of 
this life, and the many blessings which surround 
us, in such a sweet, thankful, humble frame 
of spirit, as will be well pleasing in the divine 
sight. We may be benefited, I believe, even 
by prosperity as well as by adversity, if the mind 
be kept in a state suited to our dependent con- 
dition; for dependent indeed we are, every 
moment of our days. Thus we may be brought 
on our journey, whether longer or shorter ; so 
as that, whenever the end comes, either in mid- 
dle or more advanced age, we may enter, 
through the divine mercy, into the fruition 
of that state, where there is neither want, sick- 
ness, nor pain ; and where all tears are for ever 
wiped away. 

We cannot too often look at things after this 
manner: we ought to do it daily, or oftener 
than the day. It does not unfit us for the con- 
cerns of time; but it leads us to give the pre- 
ference where it is so justly due, and where our 
interest requires us. It leads us to desire, in 
sincerity of heart, that divine goodness will be 
near us, and help us in all states and conditions, 
and under all our temptations and trials ; so 
that we may not lose our hold of good, but may 
continually advance, as our days spend and 
pass away, towards that which is the end and 
perfection of our being. 



67 



CHAP. V. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS WRITTEN FROM 
THE YEAR 1801 TO 1811; WITH SOME 
OTHER PAPERS. 

1800. — 5th mo. 18. We are again come 
up to the yearly meeting ; not, I trust, that we 
think, or thought before we set out, ourselves 
of much consequence here; but wish to think it 
a favour that we are once more permitted to 
mingle with Friends in their annual solemnity. 
Yet I remember that after all, we must, after 
partaking of the strength derived from the 
exercise and concern of the lovers of the cause, 
retire into our own littleness ; live, if we do live, 
upon our own little morsel; and depend for 
daily help and daily supplies, as well as for final 
succour and acceptance, upon the mercy and 
favour of Him who knows all our infirmities ; 
and who knows how far some of us are from 
that heavenly, redeemed state, which I believe 
many of us would gladly arrive at, however far 
we may yet be from a due willingness to submit 
to the terms. Well, my beloved friend, may the 



68 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

sweetness of divine consolation be thy experi- 
ence, to enliven thy declining years, support 
thee amidst the varied conflicts allotted, and 
sweeten the bitter cups which the diversified 
stage admits of to the travellers who are pass- 
ing over it. 

I remember at this time, a nice young man. 
Many dangers attend such as he is ; a lively, 
pleasant activity for business ; and no doubt 
many ready to associate with him. May he 
wisely remember how easy it is for the mind to 
be drawn into things, the enjoyment whereof is 
attended with no true sweetness, and which 
produce flatness and barrenness, if not bitter- 
ness in the end of them. May he remember, 
none are safe companions who have not the 
tender fear of God before their eyes ; who do 
not endeavour to yield their minds to that cross 
which brings into exercise and conflict, and for- 
bids a rest in sensual gratifications, which are 
vanity, and afford no substantial and enduring 
comfort. 

I have thought that many would like to feel 
the comforts of religion, but miss it from expect- 
ing to find some great thing to begin with ; 
whereas, perhaps the way appointed for most, is 
to begin with something very little; and it 
would be well, when our minds are exercised 
and grieved that we feel little or no capacity to- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. G9 

wards good, to consider whether there is not 
something manifested that we are not yielding 
to. Perhaps this is the very thing which is to 
be the door of entrance into the path of life, 
and of increasing consolation, and experience of 
good. 

1802. — 8 mo. 6. One thing I seemed inclined 
to mention for thy encouragement ; and that is, 
to request, affectionately, that thou wilt not let 
discouragements take place, as to the attend- 
ance of meetings for discipline at a distance, 
now that your borders as a quarterly meeting 
are enlarged, and the remoteness may be an 
additional bar to thy going. I believe thy 
company will be strengthening and encouraging 
to the rightly-concerned present, and their com- 
pany reviving and consoling to thee. Let not 
thy deafness discourage thee; thy being, in 
measure, gathered into thy own exercise, will, I 
believe, help forward the cause. Even the 
countenance of an Israelite, I believe, strengthens 
many a drooping mind ; and there are oppor- 
tunities, now and then, though it may not be 
our lot to be very active, of manifesting on 
whose side we are. So that I am inclined, from 
some persuasion of its usefulness and fitness, to 
encourage those who, with thyself, sincerely 
love the cause of Truth, to keep close to it pub- 



70 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

licly, even in declining days, as to age. Indeed, 
I have been of the mind for some time, that if 
things go on well, the more active part in our 
meetings for discipline will not always fall on 
those far advanced in years ; but they will pro- 
bably often sit by, and, like careful fathers and 
mothers, encourage by their presence and by 
their weighty spirits, the younger and middle- 
aged to come up in and maintain their respect- 
ive ranks ; and now and then, in the language 
of experience, put in a few words, well-seasoned 
and well-timed, to the increasing of the weight 
and solemnity. O ! the use of the company 
of fathers, and mothers, my beloved friend, in 
our Society. O! the pleasantness of seeing the 
hoary head in our assemblies, having kept the 
faith, having loved the Truth, and believed in 
it to the end. 

1 803. — 6 mo. 3. It was not pleasant to me that 
I did not either see or write to thee before I left 
London, which was not until the 28th. I have 
repeatedly had in view the expectation I gave 
thee of a little explanation of my views concern- 
ing the investigation of certain points which 
have often been considered as mysterious, and 
which I should gladly express in such a manner 
as would tend to thy satisfaction. 

I am inclined to believe that it is not the de- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 71 

sign of unerring Wisdom, that the mind should 
be satisfied about these things, by the exertions 
of its own powers ; but that he has wisely re- 
served to himself the communication of this 
satisfaction, dispensing it to the minds of his 
creatures, when, how, and in what degree he 
sees meet, from time to time. It seems that a 
real progress in divine knowledge is very differ- 
ently to be attained and experienced, from what 
may generally be expected and desired by man- 
kind. If any man will do his will, he shall know 
of the doctrine. — See John, vii. 17. 

It is very gratifying to the natural mind, to 
have a very full and comprehensive view of the 
subject of religion, at the beginning of the 
work ; but the religion of our Lord and Saviour 
Jesus Christ appears to be very differently in- 
tended to be opened to the mind; beginning, 
frequently, with a little light or manifestation of 
the divine will, as to some point or part of 
duty. And as obedience is yielded to this 
small manifestation, let it be respecting what- 
soever it may, greater and greater degrees 
of light and of strength are afforded, to follow- 
on to know more and more of the divine will, 
and of divine things. This is very humbling to 
the natural mind, which would willingly be 
getting on faster; but the real, divine mani- 
festations of Light and of Life must be humbly 



72 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

waited for, and the mind clothed with reve- 
rence and fear, lest it get on in its own wisdom, 
and mix something of its own with the commu- 
nications of divine Light and Life ; for it is well 
to remember, that " in Christ, (the Word) was 
Light, and that Light was the Life of men." 
Now as the mind is really favoured to believe 
that all good comes from God ; and that its own 
conceivings and searchings, in its own wisdom 
and strength, will end in disappointment, and 
short of that clearness and evidence which truly 
satisfies, it is brought into a humble, waiting 
state ; and in this reduced, dependent, humble 
state, as any thing is made known from the 
source of all true good, I believe a sweet, sub- 
stantial, satisfying something will attend it, 
which all the exertions of the mind, in its own 
wisdom and activity, cannot afford. And as this 
comes to be really known and believed, a fear 
possesses the mind of entering into abstract 
speculation concerning divine things ; preferring 
rather to wait, in humility and reverence, upon 
God ; not doubting but He will be pleased, if 
we yield obedience, day by day, to the mani- 
festations of his light in our minds, to make to 
us such discoveries as He judges best and most 
suitable for us. 

Now, as the Holy Scriptures are read in this 
disposition of mind, depending on God, through 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 73 

the spirit of Christ in the soul, for the opening 
of them to our understandings, we may, I be- 
lieve, often be sweetly refreshed, comforted, 
and edified, even in reading a very few verses. 
And if we meet with any thing which is not 
quite clear to us, we may rather feel disposed 
to leave it, than to reason, search, and contrive 
concerning it. Thus thou wilt perceive that I 
believe the religion of Christ to be a religion of 
faith in Him ; and that, as in Him are hid all 
the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, so, as 
we are brought into a state of true waiting and 
dependence upon Him, and upon the manifest- 
ations of his spirit in the soul, we are in the 
way to be rightly introduced, from time to time, 
into such degrees of knowledge in divine things, 
as is truly best for us, and best adapted to the 
state of our minds; and that it is not consistent 
with divine wisdom to communicate the trea- 
sures of heavenly mysteries, but as the mind 
becomes, through true obedience, refined and 
prepared for the reception of them. 

1804. — 7 mo. We find, as you do, the pre- 
sent scene and state of things greatly chequered. 
Many favours and many trials are our lot ; and 
I am ready, at times, to wish that I may not ex- 
pect to find it otherwise, having little room for 

E 



74 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

it. If I may judge from the fifty years which are 
passed over my head, what appears to be want- 
ing is a more settled and firm abiding, where 
neither the storms and tempests, nor the sun- 
shine of time and temporal matters can fully 
shake or move. For this experience I think I 
do long, and in measure, I think, pray that this 
longing may never, never be lost, until a per- 
fect, abiding establishment be, through hea- 
venly goodness, experienced. If the tossings 
and exercises which are met with, both by you 
and us, may but happily contribute to this 
establishment, what a favour and mercy will 
it be. 

Is not the great thing which is wanting in 
our religious Society, an individual travail, a 
close attention to individual duty, whereby we 
should more experience a fitness and qualifi- 
cations for collective service, as well as more 
availingly contribute to the advancement and 
spreading of Truth? But whilst I lament my 
own languor, I wish not, my dear friend, to dis- 
courage thee; but rather that we may unitedly 
be animated to lay hold of every offer of best 
help ; and persevere, in increased and increas- 
ing hope and confidence, to the end. 

1806. — 3 mo. We have of late time had to 
wade along under many exercises and trials, not 
fully known to any but ourselves ; yet I think we 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 75 

have cause humbly to acknowledge that we 
have been permitted to hold up our heads, and 
not altogether to sink under discouragement. 
If the varied conflicts which we have, from time 
to time, to endure in our different allotments, do 
but happily tend to increase our acquaintance 
with the Supreme Good, and to strengthen 
our confidence in the divine superintending 
care and protection, it will be well; and we 
may have to acknowledge that it is good for us 
that w r e have been afflicted. I wish us to guard 
against unprofitable bewailing ; and rather press 
on, in a grateful remembrance that we have 
many favours and blessings intermixed with the 
difficulties of the day. 

It is, indeed, a nice thing, and requiring a 
portion of best wisdom, to know how to move 
along in temporal concerns. To be suitably 
alive to the useful discharge of our duty as to 
temporal matters, and yet to have the mind so 
detached from them as to have the one thing 
needful perpetually before us, is a most desira- 
ble attainment. Uncertainty is so stamped on 
all visible enjoyments, that we had need, indeed, 
to be solicitous to have our minds established 
on something beyond them all. 

1806. — 11 mo. 27. I consider it particularly 

Eg 



76 EXTRACTS OF A LETTEKS. 

valuable to young men, to be placed, not only 
where they may be learning a pleasant and re- 
spectable business, which, under Providence, 
may be the means of procuring them a comfort- 
able maintenance and provision in the world; 
but where their amusements and engagements, 
in the hours of relaxation from business, will 
be likely to be of the innocent and rational, as 
well as religiously-consistent kind. To fill up 
the hours of leisure rightly is a nice thing; and 
I hope thou wilt be especially careful of it, par- 
ticularly in thy reading. I wish thee to read 
what thy master and mistress approve: such 
things as may be promotive of thy preservation 
in religious tenderness; and, when not of a 
religious nature, such things as will improve thy 
understanding, and enrich thy mind with profit- 
able knowledge. 

It is not unpleasant that the ground which 
was once my grandfather's, father's, and after- 
wards mine, is become the site of a meeting- 
house for Friends of Brighton: a place where 
it was, about fifty years ago, not very unlikely, 
looking outwardly, that there would be hardly 
any Friends to hold a meeting. I can remem- 
ber, when I was a boy, sitting on a First-day 
by the widow Wilkins's fire-side, to hold our 
meeting : perhaps about five or six of us in 
number. There is great cause for encourage- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 77 

ment to Friends, both youth and elder, to be 
faithful to known duty; then, I believe, we shall 
indeed be blessed with increase both in num- 
bers, strength, and dignity, with the dew of 
heaven and the fatness of the earth. Very early 
in life we may do something for this great and 
noblest of all causes, the promotion of Truth 
upon the earth. Abstaining from every appear- 
ance of evil, will give to a very youth a certain 
dignity of character ; and will be accompanied 
with humility, which, indeed, is a most excel- 
lent adorning, and without which other qualifi- 
fications and graces lose much of their beauty. 

1810. — 1 mo. 2h Thus it is : we pass 

away one after another, and the place which 
has known us shall know us no more. I long 
that those in the vigour of life may increasingly 
bend to every discovery and manifestation of 
duty, which is the w 7 ay to increase in religious 
strength. I think I never saw, more than lately, 
the usefulness and necessity of diligence to ac- 
quaint ourselves with that divine good, which 
alone can console and sustain the soul in the 
hour of trial and extremity ; and I feel, whilst 
I write, desires that thou mayst, for one, prize 
the present day. Love retirement, and fre- 
quent, solemn introversion of mind ; that so thou 
mayst increasingly see thy duty and service in 



78 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

religious society, and be careful to do it with 
Christian magnanimity and faithfulness, show- 
ing, on all occasions, on whose side thou art, 
that thou niayst be an example and encourage- 
ment to others to do likewise. Time spends 
apace, and I am desirous thou mayst be a truly 
religious character in your large meeting. O! 
the beauty of an entire consistency. How 
does the example of such operate, within the 
sphere in which they move ! How does it 
avail to their own individual good, the help 
of others, and the prosperity of the cause of 
Truth ! 

1810. — 6 mo. 24. I understand thou hast a 
fresh companion, which, I apprehend, will be 
agreeable to thee ; and I wish you may be 
strengthened to encourage one another in faith- 
fulness to the requirings of Truth, and not the 
contrary ; which is sometimes unhappily the 
case with young men taking countenance and 
encouragement from one another, in smaller or 
greater deviations from the simplicity of our 
noble profession. A sight and sense whereof, I 
believe thou hast been favoured with ; and keep- 
ing faithful to what thou seest, is the way to 
have the understanding enlarged, and to see 
more into the law of liberty, precious liberty, 
wherein the mind is raised, in measure, above 
the bondage of this perishing, unstable world. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 79 

I desire thy preservation in innocence, and 
under the teaching of the best Preceptor; and 
though it may, at times, be to our humiliation, 
and we may be led along in a path of self- 
denial, yet, remember, none ever repent having 
timely and early submitted to his discipline; 
but many, many have to lament that they 
delayed the submission of their wills too long, 
and thereby increased their own difficulties. 

1810. — 7 mo. 25. Those manifestations in- 
tended for real, solid 5 and permanent good, are 
oftentimes in the cross to our own nature; but, 
as yielded to and obeyed, they tend to change 
our nature, even to introduce that nature which 
does the will of our Heavenly Father with 
delight. And I believe such are always blessed, 
and partake of substantial good, though it may 
be often mixed with trial — such being the terms 
of this life : " In the world ye shall have tribu- 
lation." But remember the foregoing words: 
" these words I have spoken unto you, that in 
Me ye might have peace." 

1810. — >10 mo. 2. I notice thy remarks on 
the difficulty of keeping the mind under divine 
influence. I believe this is not in our power, or 
by any means at our command ; but yet I think 
much depends on watchfulness, and religious, 



SO EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, 

tender care of our movements. As we keep 
humble and watchful, I believe the influences 
of good are more perceived and longer re- 
tained: the mind becomes more and more in 
love with them and desirous of them, and more 
afraid of things which indispose it to wait for 
them; and so it is that our nature becomes 
changed, and we, prepared to run the ways of 
the Lord's requirings; and our minds to be 
content with what is according to his will. So, 

my dear , do not look too far before thee, 

nor suffer the suggestions of discouragement to 
prevail unprofitably ; but remember, " Greater 
is He that is in thee, than he that is in the 
world." I desire thy encouragement to look to 
the Lord, and to believe that He will furnish 
the willing and obedient mind with ability to 
take one step after another in the way which is 
well pleasing to him, until a capacity is known to 
walk with a degree of blessed firmness and 
acceptance ; although there is no state to be 
expected here beyond a state of humble watch- 
fulness. May it be the happy experience of 
us all. 

1811. — 8 mo. 7. I hope, if permitted to ac- 
complish your union, that you will be a comfort 
to each other, and that your principal care will 
be to walk in humility, reverence, and fear ; 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 81 

knowing, as we cannot but know, if we be wise, 
that uncertainty marks the path of man, and 
that our most precious and endearing enjoy- 
ments in the outward, are only rightly held 
and possessed, as they are held with humble 
gratitude. 

It would be very pleasant to know ■ 

well settled : not that I consider that he may 
be losing time, unless it be in delaying to take 
up the cross, and follow, in humility and resigna- 
tion of heart, the Saviour of men. I am ready 
to think that the likeliest way for many young 
men to get forward, as to an establishment in 
the world, is to seek earnestly and carefully 
after the pearl of greatest price, trusting in the 
divine promise: " Seek first the kingdom of 
God and his righteousness, and all these things 
shall be added unto you." I rather think that 
many who may be steady, respectable characters, 
yet not submitting to all the terms needful for 
those who desire, above all things, to secure to 
themselves the divine blessing, prevent that sub- 
stantial advancement, even in temporal things, 
which they would more easily be favoured with, 
if they were more weighty in spirit, and more 
fit to be placed in respectable stations at the 
head of families, having more or fewer young 

men under them. Could come enough 

e 5 



82 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

to put his trust rightly in Him, to whom belongs 
the earth and the fulness thereof, and whose 
are the cattle upon a thousand hills, I think 
something would open ; and it would be a com- 
fort to see him, thus trusting and thus depend- 
ing, settled for himself, 

1811. — 10 mo. As time passes over, we find 
fresh and fresh exercises brought over our 
minds ; and I believe it is hardly safe to ex- 
pect it will be otherwise, whilst we are convers- 
ant with the vicissitudes of time. The infirmities 
of our nature are a great trial ; and we are very 
liable to have an addition, from unexpected 
circumstances, over which we do not appear 
to have any control; but, as in the outward, 
clouds and sunshine succeed each other, so it is 
with us. And I am in degree comforted at 
this time, in some little capacity to salute thee 
as a beloved elder sister, in the faith and tribu- 
lations of our present pilgrimage ; in the tribu- 
lations common to mankind, and in the faith 
vouchsafed to the humble, exercised Christian. 
It is a very precious thing, that, although at times 
and seasons we are permitted to feel ourselves 
very destitute, tried, and deserted; and to be, as 
it were, enveloped in our own nothingness and 
infirmity ; yet, that at other times, a sweet, sen- 
sible quiet is witnessed, and a degree of confi- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 83 

dence raised in the sustaining confidence of the 
Lord our God. Here there is no desire to feel 
ourselves strong and self-sufficient, or to feel the 
creature exalted ; but it is felt to be a mercy, 
and precious favour, that we can lean upon the 
divine arm of power, and trust in the source of 
true consolation. Here the waves and the bil- 
lows are stilled ; and we are, as it were, ready 
to say, " What is become of our sorrows?" 

Well, my endeared friend, I believe thou 
hast abundant cause to trust in the Lord, and 
put thy confidence in the Holy one of Israel ; 
inasmuch as He has been thy fear and thy 
dread, thy shield, and the lifter up of thy head. 
What have we else to trust to ; however encom- 
passed, however tossed and perplexed ? And I 
believe thou knowest, that sometimes, after a 
season of rather peculiar trial, comes a day of 
distinguishingly refreshing sweetness and calm. 
It is a great consolation, that sweetness and 
peaceful enjoyment are not inseparable from 
outward prosperity. Indeed, we may do well 
humbly to rejoice and be glad, that tribulation 
produceth the fruits of righteousness, if rightly 
endured; but our nature shrinks from suf- 
fering. 



84 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



• Thy case and situation seem to re* 

quire the kind attention of thy friends. Thy 
frequent neglect of meetings for worship be- 
speaks thy mind not to be in a tender, religious 
frame; but unguarded, and too indifferent about 
thy own everlasting good. There was a time, 
I believe, when thy mind was much more sen- 
sible of the benefit of attending meetings; and 
when thou wouldst have been afraid to be 
absent, except something particular prevented 
thy attendance. Now it seems a light matter : 
seldom more than once on a first-day, sometimes 
not once; and seldom on a week-day. It is 
not the way to gain strength in the best things, 
to neglect opportunities of waiting on the Lord. 
Remember the Scripture saying: " They that 
wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength." 
But they who neglect to wait upon Him, are in 
danger of having their minds dissipated, and 
turned from good, and of coming to have a 
pleasure and delight in those things which once 
they esteemed not worth pursuing — things 
which bring no solid peace to the mind. These 
are accompanied with a sting, and with bitter 
remorse, unless the pure witness in the mind be 
so stifled and buried, that it be not heard nor 
understood, but blindness, darkness, and insen- 
sibility prevail. This is a dreadful state; but 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. S3 

I trust this is not thy situation. Yet, I think, if 
thou dost not speedily turn about, thou art in 
danger of losing the sense thou once mayst have 
had of the sweetness of a religious life and con- 
versation. Light, unguarded company, is liable 
to be a sad snare to thee. Evil communications 
corrupt good manners ; and we may be insen- 
sibly leavened, if not upon our guard, into the 
nature and spirit of those who do not walk in 
innocency. Thus, one thing after another, of 
which thy judgment may have been convinced, 
may be called in question; plainness and sin- 
cerity of speech, plainness of apparel, simplicity 
and innocency of manners, may all be departed 
from ; and thy poor mind be exposed to many, 
many dangers and temptations, from which 
thou mightst have been preserved, if thou 
hadst carefully maintained the watch; — if thou 
hadst fled from every appearance of evil, and 
been afraid of having the tenderness and sen- 
sibility of thy mind hurt, by touching and par- 
taking of things of which thou once sawest the 
evil and inconsistency. 

Do not be deceived, or believe any one to be 
thy true friend who would rejoice to see thee 
dishonour thy profession, or set light by any 
tender, religious scruple. It is a great favour 
and blessing to have a tender mind, fearful of 
doing any thing to offend our Maker; and 



86 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

those who know not the value of this tender- 
ness of mind, and would willingly rob us of it, 
are to be guarded against as dangerous com- 
panions. 

I do not mention this because I believe thou 
hast not once known it to be true ; but I believe 
thou hast opened an ear to that which, if follow- 
ed, will lead thee into confusion, if not to ruin ; 
confusion as to the state of thy mind, and as to 
thy profession as a Friend ; and, perhaps, con- 
fusion as to thy outward concerns. 

I see nothing but that the situation at 

might afford thee a competent livelihood, if 
properly minded ; but it will require care. It 
will, I believe, require thee to be frugal and 
careful in thy expenses, careful of thy time, re- 
gular and punctual in doing thy business, and 
steady in attention to it. If thou art too often 
from home, thou mayst lose more in two or 
three hours, than will be got again in a week. 
By all means, be consistent. Do not seem one 
thing, and be another. Be an industrious 
tradesman, and mind thy business. Let hardly 
any thing call thee from it, except thy religious 
duty ; and take care to give a suitable pre- 
ference to this duty, above every thing. This 
will make thee careful how thou conductest 
thyself in thy business, with punctuality, ho- 
nesty, integrity, and humility. Thou wilt fear 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS 87 

to dishonour thy profession in thy words or in 
thy ways, and this is the way for thy neighbours 
to have a confidence in thee ; for though some 
may scoff at, and deride the way of Truth and 
of simplicity, yet all like to have to do with 
those whom they can depend upon, and who 
they really believe are preserved by a principle 
of integrity, from doing them an injury, even if 
they had it in their power. 

Do not despise little things, as some may call 
them ; remembering, " he that despiseth the 
day of small things, shall fall by little and little." 
And by little and little, thou mayst get so far 
from the right way, as never more to return to 
it : thou mayst depart from the way of inno- 
cence, the way of plainness, the way of humility, 
the way of safety, so far as to have, in the end, 
to lie down in sorrow, and to wish that thou 
hadst never known better things, rather than,, 
having known them, to depart from them, and 
trample upon them. 

I believe thy situation very dangerous, and 
requiring particular watchfulness and resolu- 
tion; because thou hast, I believe, opened thy 
heart to some things of an evil tendency ; and 
that will, if not speedily and firmly stood against, 
tend to the blinding and darkening of thy un- 
derstanding. 

I think I need not make any apology for this 



88 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

friendly freedom ; as I did not see that I could 
be clear in my duty to thee, without submitting 
a few hints to thy very serious perusal. 
With desires for thy real good, 

Thy respectful Friend, 

W. G. 



Religion is a very serious thing, and by a 
great man is, I think, thus defined : " Religion 
is the fear of God, and its demonstration good 
works ; and faith is the root of both." Religion, 
therefore, taken in this sense, which I think is 
the true sense, is one thing ; profession is ano- 
ther. A man may, at his own option, and 
against conviction, change his profession ; but 
his religion he cannot so easily change. If a 
man is religious, he fears God his Creator ; fears 
to offend him in thought, word, or deed, and 
considers himself bound to walk conformably to 
this fear. Now, according to the degree of 
true light upon the understanding, is a man's re- 
ligion. He cannot, at his option, change the 
convictions of this light ; though he may act in 
opposition to them, and thereby incur condemn- 
ation. If a man does not fear God, I conclude 
he has no religion ; if he does fear God, and 
walks answerably thereto, he endeavours to act 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 89 

according to the best evidence afforded to his 
understanding, as to what is, and what is not, 
agreeable to the will of his Creator concerning 
him. Thus, if I am not mistaken, a man can- 
not, at his own option, change his religion ; 
although, as he can act in opposition to what 
is really the religion of his judgment, he can, if 
he be not conscientious, change his profession. 
We believe, as a religious Society, that the 
duty of a religious man is to endeavour to know 
his duty as a Christian, both as to matter and 
mode, and then carefully and conscientiously to 
do it. Forms of profession may be various ; 
but the truly pious, of all denominations, are, I 
believe, near akin. They unite in one grand 
and fundamental respect ; — a sincere desire 
that their whole lives may be conformable to 
the will of their Creator. This desire em- 
braces not only spiritual, but temporal things ; 
and, with regard to their religion, not only the 
life and substance, but also the form and pro- 
fession of it. 



It may well appear strange and wonderful to 
the believing mind, that the sceptic should not 
discover it to be a more reasonable conclusion, 
that that Divine Being, whom we contemplate as 



90 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

self-existent, omnipotent, and omnipresent, of 
infinite wisdom and goodness, the centre and 
essence of all created existence, in whom, there- 
fore, we live, and move, and have our being, 
should be ever mindful of those rational crea- 
tures whom he had brought into existence ; — 
that it should not strike them, as consistent 
with a Being of infinite purity and infinite wis- 
dom, who is ever inseparably near, to adapt his 
sensible influences to the varied circumstances 
of a creature so fallible, so liable to error as 
man ; rather than to leave him to himself, to 
find his way through this life, and to conduct 
himself in it, by means of any faculties entrusted 
absolutely to him. That he has faculties, and 
a capacity entrusted to him, there need be no 
doubt ; but he has, surely, need of a regulating, 
superintending, ail-intelligent Preserver, to en- 
courage, to check, to reprove, to animate, to 
stimulate, to restrain, to cherish, to console, ac- 
cording to the various circumstances to which 
the creature may be subject, either from causes 
over which it has no control, or from the wan- 
derings and errors incident to humanity. 

That there is such an influencing principle is 
the supreme joy of the just, who live by faith ; 
and it may well be matter of admiration to 
them, that the sceptic cannot believe that it ex- 
ists, or that it is possible it should exist. Well, 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 91 

now, suppose the sceptic should begin to be- 
lieve that such a thing is possible ; and then let 
him imagine, that some who have taken a dif- 
ferent path to himself, have really found, by 
experience — by experience so often repeated as 
to have become undoubted proof to them, that 
such a precious, such a powerful principle does 
exist; and not only exist, but does act influ- 
entially for their good, to their humble and 
thankful admiration. After this, is it not highly 
reasonable for him to conclude, that, in ad- 
mitting the doubts which he has entertained, 
he has been unwise ?— that he has shut up the 
way to his experiencing what others have come 
to know ? 

Suppose again, that those who have come to 
this experience, (for, after all, experience is the 
great baffler of speculation,) do find in the 
Scriptures abundant testimonies to an inward 
experience of this same living, active, and in- 
fluential principle in the hearts of others, which 
they believe they have found in themselves, is 
it not highly reasonable that they should enter- 
tain an extraordinary value for these writings ; 
and that, finding so much in them which they 
cannot but highly approve, and which they can- 
not doubt the truth of, they are very fearful of 
underrating them, and thereby depriving them- 
selves of the help, the consolation, and ad van- 



92 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

tage to be derived from them ? These writings 
give their believing reader to understand, that 
this pure, active, influential, regulating prin- 
ciple, is the Spirit of Christ — the Spirit of 
Immanuel, God with us : in other words, that 
dispensation, revelation, or display of the divine 
nature, life, and power, which is adapted to the 
situation, the benefit, the exigencies, of created 
intelligences. And these believing readers, 
finding that the power which acts in them, 
which influences, incites, reproves, restrains, 
and comforts, eventually tends to good, they 
cannot doubt that it is divine— that it is of 
God. Hence arises an increased value and 
esteem for these writings, as testifying of a 
divine principle so precious, and of the expe- 
rience of others respecting it, and of its power 
and virtue, so corresponding with their own 
views and experience of its excellency, and of 
its refining, sanctifying tendency. 



93 



CHAP. VI. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, WRITTEN FROM 
THE YEAR 1812 TO 1819. 



1812. — 1 mo. 4. Many are the ways by 
which our poor minds are liable to be brought 
into trouble ; I think I know this, not only from 
the relation of others, but from my own repeated 
experience. Sometimes inadvertencies of our 
own become a source of affliction and distress ; 
and sometimes this is accompanied with in- 
firmity both of body and mind; and, from 
these complicated causes, the poor creature 
is plunged into unspeakable perplexity, from 
which it sees no way or probability of escape ; 
and is hoping sometimes for relief one way, and 
sometimes another, but no permanent quiet can 
be obtained. Like the sea, that unstable ele- 
ment, whose billows run very high, and wave 
upon wave, so rest and quiet seem to have taken 
their leave of us. But as man did not form, or 
create himself; so, neither can he deliver or 



94 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

preserve himself. Yet, I believe, in these sea- 
sons of deep distress, poor mortals are under 
the immediate and peculiar notice of the Most 
High ; and, in the language of one of his fa- 
voured servants, we may say, " There is none 
so nigh sinking, but He puts his hand under 
their head." He knows all our difficulties and 
perplexities; He marks our solitary wander- 
ings, and sees the path which we take. O ! 
then, from whatever causes our distresses arise, 
whether ever so simple or ever so complicated, 
it is good, it is safe, it is most wise to trust in 
Him, to cast our care upon Him, who knows 
our frame, and remembers that we are but 
dust; and by whom, in the emphatical lan- 
guage of our blessed Lord, " the very hairs of 
our head are all numbered. ' The great thing 
is, and I hope, as thou tenderly desirest it, 
thou wilt more and more experience it to be a 
truth; — the great thing is, to endeavour to be 
still and wait for his salvation, under a humble, 
but quiet sense of our own inability to help our- 
selves. Guard against impatience or activity, 
but crave to be favoured with stillness. Let 
the billows pass over, and wave upon wave; but 
keep thou in the quiet habitation, and wait to 
see what will become of the storm. Do not 
imagine that thou canst still the tempest, nor 
attempt in thy own strength to do it ; but 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 95 

endeavour to stay thy mind on Him who for- 
merly, when his poor disciples were in dismay, 
said to the wind and the waves, " Peace, be 
still ; and there was a great calm ; and they 
were filled with wonder, and cried out, What 
manner of man is tjiis, that even the winds and 
the sea obey Him." 

1812. — 9 mo. 20. I think that, on both sides 
of the middle path of life, there is great danger 
of mixing with the spirit of the world. It is 
very observable, that abundance of the good 
things of this life, that ease, and large acqui- 
sitions of knowledge, have that tendency. On 
the other hand, where there is a great want of 
literary qualification, where there is rusticity of 
manners, and a necessity to be plodding hard 
for a livelihood, and where temporal conveni- 
ences are but poorly supplied after all, there is 
a great liability for the mind to be let down into 
the same state, at least in degree, as we too 
often see amongst the poorer classes of the 
people at large. Not but that Truth, which is 
omnipotent to all good purposes, is fully equal 
to preserve in all right allotments. But how 
shall we in the middle stations, be sufficiently 
thankful that the " lines have fallen to us in 
pleasant places," — in profitable places, may I not 
say, 



96 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

It seems to be the great thing wanting in 
myself, and I suppose in the Society, a capacity 
rightly, and therefore availingly, to pray ; but 
we must look forward, and press forward : hav- 
ing put our hands to the plough, it will not do 
to look back. 

That " we are not our own ;" that we are not 
to gird ourselves, and walk whithersoever we 
list, is a truth so clear and evident to the en- 
lightened mind, that it should be, I think, almost 
a first principle in education, in doctrine, in the 
habitual frame of the mind. But who are suf- 
ficient for these things? 

May you be favoured to get into that spot 
where, the eye being kept single, the body is 
full of light ; — where the earnest desire and 
breathing of every one is, that no one may 'be 
wounded or hurt; — where the willingness to 
part with selfish views is known; — where the 
preservation of love, harmony, and sweetness, is 
felt to be more precious than any outward 
good ; and where the mind craves, above all 
things, that every movement may be agreeable 
to the will of our Heavenly Father, and tend to 
his honour and glory, and the promotion of the 
cause of peace and righteousness. And I sin- 
cerely question, whether there be any way in 
which we more acceptably serve Him, than 
when, in the transaction of our outward affairs, 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 97 

we are preserved in meekness, quietness, and 
self-denial, with our eye and desire to Him, for 
guidance, limitation, and protection. 

1812.— 11 mo. 29. The principle of light, 
life, and power, as submitted to, more and 
more leads the awakened and dedicated mind 
out of a conformity to the maxims and manners 
of the world, by a path of humble self-denial, 
to the enjoyment of a peace which is sub- 
stantial, sweet, and precious. Press after it, 
my dear friend : press into the enjoyment of it : 
whatsoever sacrifices are required, I entreat 
thee to make them through the renewings of 
best help. Do not embittter thy future days, 
by persevering in opposition to the clear mani- 
festations of the light of Truth. Get not into 
abstract reasonings on things ; but eye the 
light, and follow it, step by step, as the way is 
opened for thy complete deliverance. 

How precious it is, my dear friend, in im- 
portant movements, to feel a humble, reverent, 
filial trust in the divine blessing on our under- 
takings ; and though, at times, we may not be 
favoured with very clear and strong light upon 
our path, yet, being preserved in a fear of 
offending, and in a sense that, without the di- 
vine blessing upon it, all our acquisitions and 
F 



98 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

enjoyments will have a void, a painful void, 
here we are in the way of safety. There is, 
may I not say, an indescribable distinction be- 
tween those who have really believed in the 
reality of divine, inward, immediate communi- 
cation to the soul, and those who have not. 
Faith in this divine gift is a most precious 
thing — a most valuable treasure ; not to be 
trifled with ; not to be bartered away ; but to be 
reverently, humbly, and perseveringly treasured 
up, improved, and lived upon. Remember this, 
my dear friend ; and may heavenly goodness be 
near to help, direct, and sustain thee. Amen. 

1813. — 2 mo. IS. Our principles 

are calculated to inspire love, esteem, and con- 
fidence ; inasmuch, as they point to humility, a 
general, courteous behaviour to all, and to strict 
punctuality. How do I desire that * * and * 
may be favoured to keep little and thankful ; 
sensible what a favour it is to be enabled to 
procure, by industry and attention, a comfort- 
able competency, and at the same time sensible 
also that this is not all that we want to make us 
truly useful and happy. Uncertainty attends 
the most flattering outward prospects. Young 
men engaging in business are much to be felt 
for and sympathized with, that they may be 
preserved from unprofitable depression on the 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 99 

one hand, and undue elevation on the other : 
happy if they can be preserved, using their 
best, honest, and upright endeavours, whilst 
they feel a dependence on our Heavenly Father, 
for the needful supplies of strength of body and 
mind ; of prudence, of discretion, and well-regu- 
lated affections and desires. 

1813. — 3 mo. 2. In the Sowings of love, 
and in the enlargement or expansion of the 
mind, we may, I believe, sometimes be ready 
to recommend writings which are really very 
estimable; and yet in which, from the first 
word to the last, perhaps there is not a single 
pointing to the Word nigh in the heart, the 
divine gift, or light of Christ. Does it not re- 
quire great care how such are recommended ? 
I write with caution, not wishing to prevent any 
good ; but it wants to be more understood in 
the world, (and what if this be one of the great 
ends of our being raised up,) that it is not 
comprehending sublime truths, even the truths 
of the Gospel, so much as seeing and knowing 
our own individual part of the great whole, 
that is the grand desideratum for us all ; and 
which, do we not allow, cannot any way be so 
well known, as by diligent attention to this 
divine gift? Attending to this divine gift in 
f 2 



100 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

ourselves, and so being drawn and kept under 
its influence, it becomes our element, and we 
move healthfully and safely along in it. And 
in this element, not out of it, we may look at 
many things, and touch many things, perhaps 
without spiritual loss, and possibly with spi- 
ritual advantage; but the danger and the loss 
seem to be from meddling with religious and 
spiritual things, out of this element. Keeping 
in this element, we are in the way of feeling the 
liberty of Truth, and its blessed restraints, as to 
touching, tasting, or handling this, that, or the 
other thing, that is thrown in our way. 

1813. — 11 mo. 1.2. It is indeed occasion for 
thankfulness, that thou art permitted to report 
so favourably, which I hope may continue to 
be the case, as thou art preserved desirous that 
thy days may be spent in humility, watchful- 
ness, and fear ; so that the blessing may attend 
thy honest and upright endeavours. There is 
a fear lest any right endeavours on our part 
should be wanting, which, I believe, is accept- 
able in the divine sight, and tends to preserva- 
tion ; and there is an anxiety and earnestness, 
which, I believe, wounds the religious mind, 
and is not fruitful of good. So that the prayer 
formerly put up is emphatically adapted to the 
Christian traveller of all generations : " Give 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 101 

me neither riches nor poverty, but feed me with 
food convenient for me." And I am glad 
thou art favoured to be connected with those 
who, whilst they are caring that temporal mat- 
ters may be prudently and reputably ordered, 
are desirous of giving the upper hand to those 
things which perish not with the using ; but which 
are necessary to be sought after, cherished, and 
preferred, whether our allotment, as to the out- 
ward, be in prosperity or adversity. I sincerely 
desire your preservation, and that the best 
blessing may attend and enrich your minds : so 
may the effects thereof be increasingly your 
happy experience ; even meekness, patience, 
contentment, sweetness, love. 

I am sorry for the account of poor *s 

misconduct. I am in hopes that separation and 
restraint from improper company may place her 
in a capacity to discern more distinctly wherein 
true happiness consists, and the path which 
leads to it. Speaking on the subject, I am re- 
minded of the experience of that dignified dis- 
ciple of the great Master, Isaac Penington, 
where I think he describes himself as in a state 
of mourning for all the miserable, however de- 
servedly so. 

It was very pleasant to hear so agreeable an 

account of , for whose preservation out 

of every hurtful thing, we can unite with you in 



102 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

desire. And I wish he may be favoured to see 
what a privilege it is to be comfortably intro- 
duced into business, without the hazard, to 
which many suffer themselves to be exposed, of 
convulsive shocks, which endanger both tem- 
poral and spiritual comfort. He seems to have 
slidden into an establishment very easily, and 
perhaps with as much encouragement as is de- 
sirable. I hope nothing will be permitted to 
take him off his feet, either prosperity or adver- 
sity, for there are snares in both ; but that, by 
endeavouring to appreciate the favours received, 
he may set a proper, not an improper, value 
upon them, and see the necessity of watchful- 
ness in every stage of his progress, if he would 
be kept from wandering, and know an advance- 
ment in the pursuit and enjoyment of substantial 
good, temporally and spiritually. 

" Oh ! the long list of mercies undeserved, 
And oh! what greater gifts are still reserved." 

So that there is abundant encouragement to 
those who are humbly in the pursuit of hap- 
piness, within the limits and appointment of 
that Wisdom and Goodness which are infinite. 

1815. — 2 mo. 16. In the first place, and 

pre-eminently, I seem anxious, my dear , to 

say, that if thou wert to be induced to leave 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 103 

, I should entertain little doubt but that an 
enemy had done it. When, through the per- 
mission of a kind and gracious Providence, we 
are so situated as to be not only comfortably 
provided for, set down with comparative safety, 
and free from the risks to which many are ex- 
posed, which greatly agitate and prevent a reli- 
gious growth; but are also in the way to make 
a reasonable, and even a handsome, provision 
for that time of life, if permitted to reach it, 
when much exertion would be inconvenient, 
if not unsuitable:— when we are thus circum- 
stanced, how needful it is for the religiously- 
visited mind to labour after a state not only 
of content, but of gratitude ; and in the very 
depth of sincerity, on any contemplation of a 
change, to say, " O Lord, I beseech thee, if thy 
presence go not with me, carry me not hence." 
Oh ! the many ways there are by which we may 
be betrayed from a state of humility and reve- 
rence of mind, and drawn out of the land of 
Goshen, the spot appointed for the children of 
promise, into the land of Egyptian captivity, 
where confusion and darkness prevail, a dark- 
ness which may be felt. My heart, I think, in 
measure, travails for thy preservation out of 
those things that lift up the mind, prompting to 
aspire after great things ; and unfitting, disqua- 
lifying, to sit, in a lowly posture, at the feet of 



104 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

Jesus, the holy example of obedience and self- 
deniaT. 

With me it is a very tender thing for any- 
visited mind to leave a situation, in which the 
blessing has not been withheld, inwardly and 
outwardly. It is, I think, a ready way for the 
ungrateful receiver to experience a withering as 
to the divine life, and often lamentable miscar- 
riage as to the outward. 

Oh! the safety, the unspeakable advantage 
of keeping heaven uppermost, and the earth 
undermost. May this never be unhappily re- 
versed in me, or any, for whose welfare I am 
particularly concerned. 

IS 16. — 9 mo. 19. I hope, with moderate in- 
dustry and prudent care, you will be permitted, 
if your days are prolonged, to continue making 
some additions to your property ; thereby en- 
larging your sphere of usefulness, as well as in- 
creasing your comfort. Much riches I do not 
covet for you : they are not necessary for our 
sweetest enjoyments. Supineness and inat- 
tention are productive of very little good; but 
moderate application, in a reliance on the bless- 
ing of Providence upon our humble and upright 
endeavours, adds much to our comfort, keeping 
our faculties bright, and even, I believe the 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 105 

the more susceptible of good. I wish your com- 
fort, and that you may rightly appreciate the 
time and opportunity put into your hands, 
wisely applying your attention between spirit- 
ual and temporal things. I had written dividing, 
but I drew the pen over it, thinking the ex- 
pression exceptionable ; because I believe we 
may be favoured to have our minds so pre- 
served, as to maintain an undivided preference 
for that which is best of all, (though neces- 
sarily engaged, and rightly so, in the concerns 
of this life,) and to feel that we have indeed a 
connexion with ever and ever, whilst we are 
conversant with the vicissitudes of an earthly 
pilgrimage. 

1816. — 10 mo. 13. Oh! that w r e who move 
in comparatively narrow circles, may be enabled 
to pray for the consolation, protection, and safe 
guidance of those who go forth as with their lives 
in their hand, [to scatter gospel truths] and 
move in distant regions, amongst strangers, and 
even people of strange language. 

What a favour, when afflictions tend to refine 
and purify, and make us fit for a state of never- 
ending felicity, with those who having served 
God in their generation, and loved the brethren, 
have entered into glory. 
f5 



106 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

M Oh ! human life, how mutable, how vain I 
How thy wide sorrows circumscribe thy joy : 
A sunny island on a stormy main, 
A spot of azure in a cloudy sky." 

And yet I seem inclined to add also a prose 
quotation from another writer, and say : " How 
delightfully pleasant and sweet has Providence 
made the seat of man's probation." 

181G. — 12 mo. 28. It is a very interesting 
and momentous time for you; and I suppose 
you hardly ever had more occasion for best 
wisdom to direct your deliberations, that all 
may be done in sweetness, harmony, and love, 
as well as with wisdom and a sound mind. 
I desire your preservation and ours on every 
hand, that true happiness and comfort may be 
your peaceful portion and ours, and, in the end, 
your and our enriching crown. I believe, in 
order for this, it is needful to dwell very low, 
where the right discernment is given ; and the 
feeling known, whereby a capacity to distinguish 
is attained, and preservation witnessed. 

As you desire in simplicity so to move as you 
believe will be the readiest way to solid peace, 
I hope and believe that a blessing will attend 
you. When the mind is preserved in a watch- 
ful care to do right, and is fearful of wounding 
its own solid peace, I believe that, although 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 107 

many perplexities may be permitted to attend 
the path which we tread, yet He who sees us 
and knows our thoughts, and who, as a Father 
pitieth his children, pitieth those that fear Him, 
will remember us in an accepted time, and be as 
a hiding-place from the storm. So that it is 
good to trust in Him at all times, and to endea- 
vour to walk, as we believe, considering our re- 
spective circumstances, will be acceptable in his 
holy sight. 

My desire is, that you may study moderation 
in your pursuit of business; not stretching your 
arms very wide; endeavouring to carry a snug 
sail, as the safest in stormy weather; not hazard- 
ing the peace and composure, the solid hap- 
piness, of your minds, for any specious and 
glittering, but uncertain and dangerous pro- 
spects. Be content with what you can, through 
favour, compass, and compass with satisfaction. 

1817. — 3 mo. 20. A tender sensibility, and 
a disposition raised in the mind to crave and 
press after that which can be depended on as 
substantia], sustaining food, is very precious. 
It introduces into the exercise of that faith 
which becomes, from time to time, the Chris- 
tian's victory, and, through heavenly goodness, 
his eventual triumph. " This is the victory 
that overcometh the world, even your faith." 



108 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

My object seems to be to express a desiFe 
that thou mayst indeed be preserved in a state 
of humble dependence on the divine arm of 
Omnipotence; not seeking or desiring great 
attainments, but preservation near to that 
which has visited \ believing that in that are 
hid the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, 
ready to be handed forth according to the 
good will and pleasure of Him who doeth 
all things well. Mayst thou live in a state 
of watchfulness for the unfoldings of heavenly 
counsel, as mercifully, from time to time, and 
at any time, vouchsafed ; desiring also to in- 
crease in subjection of the will, and in well- 
timed obedience. To the obedient mind, I 
believe, the unfoldings of heavenly counsel are 
vouchsafed, in a way and time suited to our 
condition. 

Considering how supremely needful it is 
for the religiously-visited mind to attend to 
its own peculiar exercise, I have felt solicitous 
that nothing, however specious, might involve 
thee in unprofitable speculation. This does 
not go to the prevention of the exercise of 
our mental faculties, as rational creatures, but 
to the exciting of great watchfulness and care, 
to distinguish what, in our mental pursuits, 
makes for peace, and what does not. There 
is a precious saying: " As many as are bap- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 109 

tized into Christ, have put on Christ." It 
is a great favour to have, in any measure, 
put him on; and greatly, I believe, will it 
tend to our safety, to be pretty sure that we 
do not put Him, the beloved of souls, off, and 
clothe ourselves with something else, in any of 
our pursuits, even those which have a religious 
or spiritual semblance. 

1818. — 11 mo, 10. Probably some of those 
having the care of youth, and heads of families, 
among whom I include myself, have not enough 
been concerned to watch the openings of right 
capacity in themselves to convey, and the open- 
ings of right capacity in the youth to receive, 
lively instruction; and it appears to me, that 
this watchfulness for the opening, is the thing 
wanted among us. It is, I believe, a humbling, 
heart work, and would greatly promote the 
growth both of guardians and their charge. 

Amidst the contemplation of the sub- 
ject of religious instruction, I have remembered 
with some comfort, those expressions of our 
blessed Lord to his followers : " I have many 
things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear 
them now ;" and I think it certainly requires 
care, how we press religious truths too far be- 
yond the religious capacity of young people ; 
perhaps not possessing the essential preparation 



110 EXTRACTS OF A LETTERS. 

for the reception of diffuse religious instruction, 
a resignation of the mind to bear the cross. 
To excite a willingness to bear the cross, with 
an eye to the crown, I consider a first principle 
in Christian education. If I am not mistaken, 
it has often been inculcated as a sound principle, 
not to puzzle ourselves too much to comprehend 
doctrinal passages of Scripture ; but to leave 
them to be opened to our understandings, if 
needful, in the due and acceptable time. 

I think, my dear friend, though I have 

said so much, (I fear too much for me,) I should 
scarcely be satisfied without now suggesting one 
idea that has often presented, respecting the 
instruction of our young people : viz. I fear the 
public recommendation of any specific plan, for 
obvious reasons ; but when one individual, or 
more, see their way to set about it, within their 
own sphere of action, I think it may be useful 
and safe ; because this may be continued and 
prosecuted, as far and as long as the oil flows ; 
and when it ceases, procedure may be dropped, 
or contracted, as freedom warrants. And if 
the blessing is on it, we may safely trust that it 
will be productive of benefit, and that the ex- 
ample will be influential, and perhaps widely so. 
This latter remark may, in degree, apply also to 
pressing the reading of Friends' writings. A 
thirst for good will naturally lead to this. To 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. HI 

excite this thirst, then, seems the first object. 
To a mind not thirsty, Friends' writings are, I 
believe, often very dull and insipid : to a mind 
in which the thirst is excited, they are, indeed, 
as a brook by the way ; very precious, very 
sweet, very reviving. 

Leaving this, shall I mention without weary- 
ing thee, that it has lately occurred to me, that 
an advantage might be derived from pleading 
our belief in the Divine omnipresence, as one 
reason of our silent waiting in our meetings, 
and at other times : namely, because we believe 
that He is ever near us ; that He is ever over 
us, round about us ; and because in Him we 
live, and move, and have our being ? And al- 
though we are not at all times permitted to be 
sensible of his presence, yet, whenever it pleases 
Him, He can make us perceive it, as in the 
twinkling of an eye, and comfort us with his 
light and love. And believing that this percep- 
tion of his love is our greatest good, and not at 
all at our command, we find it our duty and our 
interest, knowing that He is ever nigh at hand, 
to wait his time and pleasure for making us 
sensible of it. And when He is pleased to bless 
us, and to bow our minds, and the faculties of 
the soul, in reverence and prostration, under a 
sense of his goodness, and of our absolute need 
of Him and dependence upon Him, then we 



112 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

believe is performed in us, and by us, that wor- 
ship which is acceptable unto Him. " God is a 
Spirit, and they that worship Him must worship 
Him in spirit and in truth. And in order that 
this worship may, from time to time, be per- 
formed in the newness of life, it must be in fresh 
ability, which He giveth, or rather lendeth ; for 
He does not bestow it as an abiding capacity, to 
be exercised in our will and time ; but it must 
be from time to time, humbly and patiently 
waited for. Would it not be a likely thing 
to impress this view of the Omnipresence on 
the minds of young people, as most precious 
and consolatory, and as that which should in- 
spire us with awe, and reverence, and abased- 
ness on one hand, and with animation and con- 
fidence on the other. 

1818. — 11 7720.25. My sincere desire is, that 
the circumstances which have occurred may be 
sanctified to you; that the blessing of Provi- 
dence may be over you, and round about you ; 
and that the blessings of love, harmony, and 
peace, on a right and pure foundation, may be 
your enriching experience. I feel for your 
prosperity on a right ground so sincerely, that 
I return again to that subject. Keep low and 
humble, and attentive to best instruction in the 
secret of your own minds; and then, I hope, 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 113 

preservation will be vouchsafed to you. Do not 
crave great things. Remember the saying of a 
worthy character: "I desire not riches, but 
to owe nothing." Thou knowest I like com- 
mendable industry. The sluggard cannot rea- 
sonably expect to prosper; but then our eye, and 
the dependence of our minds, should be to the 
Lord, and to his blessing upon our honest, up- 
right, and moderately-circumscribed endeavours. 
In any material and important movement, con- 
sult us with much openness and unreserved 
freedom, as we desire thy preservation on every 
hand. I believe all right situations have their 
attendant probations; and however we may 
move, we must not expect to be without them. 
Trials bring weight ; and a weighty mind is a 
great blessing. 

It is a matter of sincere regret that ■ ■ 

has so much travelling. I am well aware of its 
unsettling and injurious tendency, as it respects 
the humble, tender, well-regulated state of the 
mind of almost any Friend. 

1819. — 1 mo. 23. I have entertained some 
fear, lest I had not properly expressed my own 
views and wishes, on some part of the subjects 
touched upon in my communication of the 11th 
month* : particularly that of encouraging young 

* See the last preceding letter but one, page 10& 



114 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

persons to read the writings of our early Friends. 
Perhaps no one wishes more sincerely than 
myself, to see this practice prevail among our 
young Friends, as well as those more advanced. 
It is particularly cordial to me to see young 
people so engaged ; and I desire it may be en- 
couraged in every proper way. There are 
many ways, doubtless, of doing this ; and I feel 
anxious that nothing which has escaped my 
pen may discourage any honest and upright 
endeavour to promote this object. Many of 
the writings of our worthy predecessors, with 
some of those of later date, I esteem an inva- 
luable treasure to the Society, not to say to the 
world ; and my desire is, that they may be duly 
appreciated by all ranks amongst us. 

I am fully aware that a careful parent or 
guardian may very suitably recommend or use 
Friends' writings as one means, and a very likely 
means, to excite and increase the thirst here 
spoken of; and perhaps, just in this place, I may 
not improperly tell thee, that this morning, just 
when I was thinking to address thee, I very un- 
expectedly cast my eye on a few lines, which I 
some time ago penned, and which I had quite 
forgotten, to the following import: they may 
seem somewhat illustrative of my view of this 
matter. " If the mind is directed to that which 
is good, becoming tender in the fear of the 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 115 

Lord, expecting all good from Him as the ever- 
lasting fountain of happiness, peace, and com- 
fort, there is a good foundation laid for receiv- 
ing the openings of Truth, either immediately 
by the Spirit, or instrumentally by the Scrip- 
tures, ministry, or good books." 

1819. — 9 mo. 18. We have often cause for 
thankfulness, when we can remember any past 
opportunity with sweetness and satisfaction in 
the retrospect. This has been the case with 
respect to thy late visit to us. It left me ten- 
derly interested about thee : so much so, that I 
seemed as if I might not do safely, if I omitted 
telling thee so. I think I am not mistaken in 
believing that thy mind often possesses a pre- 
cious sensibility of desire after good, — after 
peace and substantial happiness. And oh ! the 
longing that I have felt that nothing may be 
permitted to quench this desire in thy heart; 
but rather that it may grow and increase, until 
nothing, nothing in this world, may bear any 
comparison with it in thy estimation. Endea- 
vour, I beseech thee, to keep thy mind inward 
unto the Lord. Lean upon Him, trust in Him, 
and He will sustain thee in the humbling path 
of self-denial and lowly-mindedness. I do not 
mean a voluntary humility; but that humility 
which is induced by a watchful, well-timed obe- 



116 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

dience to the secret manifestations of the divine 
will. This will humble the creature ; but, bless- 
ed be his name, it leads into, and preserves in, 
a capacity to receive the further and further 
manifestations of his Will, of his Truth, of his 
Light, of his love, even as He knows we can 
bear it, and as, in his wisdom, He sees meet to 
unfold them to us. But, oh ! the great loss 
which is sustained, I believe, through the want 
of following on to know Him, in the only way 
in which we can attain to the knowledge of 
Him, the way of Faith; which word implies not 
only belief in, but reliance and dependence upon 
Him. And though this may sometimes be found 
a tribulated path, I believe it is the path to the 
kingdom of heaven — the kingdom of peace and 
joy: begun and revealed in degree, I believe, to 
the redeemed mind even in this life, and con- 
summated in that which is to come. 

When I consider where thou art placed, the 
large meeting thou belongest to ; — how desira- 
ble it appears to me, that thou shouldst make 
an early and a full surrender. Keep in the 
quiet : keep in sweet innocence. Let peace be 
the primary object ; and then other things 
rightly permitted and dispensed, will be enjoyed 
with humility and thankfulness. 

What would sincere dedication and submis- 
sion in a few individuals, do in your large meet- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 117 

ing. How would example strengthen and en- 
courage others to come forward, who are halting 
between two opinions ; and whilst they hesitate, 
weakness besets, and probably increases: where- 
as, if faithfulness were yielded to the manifest- 
ations of Truth in the mind, how would the 
divine arm support and sustain ; how would 
strength be afforded to walk steadily forward, 
perhaps with feeble and diffident, but with safe 
and peaceful steps. Oh ! the exceeding pre- 
ciousness of early dedication, of early submitting 
the creaturely will to the discoveries of duty. 
Inasmuch as the Almighty is the fountain of 
happiness, the more we look to Him for direc- 
tion and safe guidance, the more likely we are 
to arrive at this fountain; and, I believe, in con- 
descending loving-kindness, He is dealing with 
those who early make Him their choice. I be- 
lieve He gives them to experience his fatherly 
care over them ; and every now and then gives 
them some proof that it is well for them that 
they have trusted in Him. 

I do not wish to enlarge; but I want to en- 
courage thee to be of those who sit alone, and 
keep silence ; bearing the yoke, that precious 
yoke, which, through divine goodness, keeps 
down in us those dispositions and propensities, 
which, if not kept under, will retard or prevent 
the growth of the plant of renown, in that dig- 



118 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

nity and stature which it otherwise would attain, 
and which should outgrow and overgrow every 
thing else in us. 

I was not sure w r hether the cause [of 



religion] might not, in some degree, suffer from 
my remarks respecting the intimations of Truth 
to the mind about outward concerns. Perhaps 
an apprehension of the right thing suffering 
by our friend's over-rating some of his impres- 
sions, at the same time that he is managing so 
poorly, might drive me too far in expression on 
the opposite side. Exceedingly precious, when 
vouchsafed, do I esteem the guidance of a 
gracious Providence respecting outward things. 
But I think I have noticed that some of those 
whom I have loved, esteemed, and honoured, 
have been very cautious of speaking of this 
favour, as it respected themselves ; probably 
considering it as something that is better known 
and felt, than talked about; and scarcely enough 
given them as their own, to be made so free 
with: — being, in order to keep the creature 
humble, low, fearful, dependent, and in self- 
abasement, so gently and faintly, though intel- 
ligibly marked and defined to themselves, as 
may serve to preserve them walking by faith, 
and not by strong sight. Should a suitable op- 
portunity occur, perhaps thou wilt mention a 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 119 

few words expressive of my sense of the matter. 
I should not like to hurt the cause, nor wound 
our friend's mind to his disadvantage. I trust I 
may thankfully say, that I am a humble believer 
in the condescension, goodness, and mercy of 
our heavenly Father to his dependent children, 
both respecting their outward and inward con- 
dition and circumstances. 

I wish both you and we may be fa- 
voured, at seasons, with the renewings of best 
ability to desire for all the youth, most parti- 
cularly the objects of our care, that the divine 
fear may be richly placed in their hearts, as the 
most effectual way and means for them to 
inherit every blessing consistent with the Hea- 
venly Father's will for them to enjoy; and as the 
blessed preservation from the many evils which 
abound in the world, and which court their 
affection* 



120 



CHAP. VII. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, WRITTEN FROM 
1820 TO 1823. 



1820. — 3 mo. 9. It is not pleasant to me 
that thy kind and acceptable letter of last month 
should have remained so long unacknowledged. 
I believe it can be attributed to no cause more 
justly, than to the poverty of my own mind; 
though I am aware that the expression of this 
is not likely to make thee rich. However, it 
behoves us to endure with patience our allot- 
ment, and the various changes which are per- 
mitted ; and happy is it, if our poverty be not 
the consequence of our own indolence, inatten- 
tion, or disobedience. My own health is very 
favourably continued ; but I very often remember 
the flight of time, and that many, very many sands 
have escaped from the glass. This is a che- 
quered and very uncertain scene: how happy 
for those, who under all, and through all, are 
permitted often to cast anchor; and feelingly 
to acknowledge, that the Lord is good, worthy 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 121 

to be waited for, served, honoured, and obey- 
ed, under all circumstances, and in all con- 
ditions. 

1821. — 12 mo. 15. Oh! the importance, as 
I view the subject, of Friends keeping in the 
unity, out of disputations, in the self-denial, 
(which includes a willingness to suffer,) in the 
littleness and abasement, rather than that any 
of Truth's testimonies should fall to the 
ground. 

I think I never saw the necessity and value 
of Friends in this nation being a compact un- 
divided body, more than now ; that its conduct 
may speak, not a confused, but intelligible and 
inviting language to those who are seeking rest 
for the sole of their feet. 

I consider it may have been a great favour 
to our Society to have been disqualified, as 
the criminal law stands, from serving on juries; 
as well as, I think it is, from accepting places 
of profit under government, in the present 
mixed state of things. And I suppose we 
neither of us apprehend that Friends, as a 
religious body, are less in danger from the 
spirit of the world and its friendship, than they 
were a century ago. 

G 



122 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

1822.— 7 wo. 3*. Though much attended 
with mental poverty, I seem not easy to omit 
saluting you with a few lines expressive of en- 
deared affection, and of a hope, that amidst the 
various ways in which the cause of Truth may, 
under the divine blessing, be acceptably pro- 
moted, that in which you are now engaged may 
be one. And under present feeling, I seem as 
if I might say, it matters little whether the flock 
visited be smaller or greater, or whether what 
we have to communicate be little or much, if 
the great and gracious Shepherd condescend 
to own the engagement with the animating in- 
fluence of his love. 

" A little with the blessing is a deal : 
Witness the widow's oil, the widow's meal." 

I think I can say, my heart dearly salutes 
you, and craves your preservation in the meek- 
ness, innocence, and simplicity of the Gospel. 
I, if capable of seeing any thing, think there is 
great beauty and precious safety, in those who 
come in amongst us, keeping enough to the 
measure of their own gift and experience ; en- 
deavouring daily, as it may consist with the 



* This Lettes was written to some of his friends, when 
en a visit, by appointment of the Meeting for Sufferings, 
to the Friends of Pyrmont and Minden, 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 123 

divine will, to know an increase therein, but not 
outstepping their guide. Oh ! what sympathy 
is called for, on behalf of sincere and tender 
minds, circumstanced as this little flock is, in 
such a country. May your visit tend to 
strengthen in a lowly, humble, quiet, inward 
dependence on the increase of the gift, indi- 
vidually received, as the likely way for them to 
be a strength to one another. 

James Parnel says to Stephen Crisp, "Be not 
hasty to know any thing beyond thy measure ;" 
and really there does seem something very pre- 
cious in this, provided the measure be fully 
kept up to; and we are preserved out of all su- 
pineness, lethargy, and inattention. Do re- 
member me, as a poor brother, that wishes to 
make some humble advancement in solid ex- 
perience of that good, which in a day of trial 
will be more to us than all the world. However 
appearances may be against it, I have been in 
so poor a spot myself, as to seem almost unfit 
to meddle with sacred things, beyond my own 
breast ; yet you see I venture-— I hope I hum- 
bly venture." 

1822. — 7 mo. 3. What a scale of usefulness 

do and — - move on, compared with 

some of us ; but then I remember, that no one in 
g 2 



124 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

sincerity of love and attachment to the cause, 
shall even shut a door in the house for nought. 
And there is great sweetness, I believe, often 
experienced in the humbler and more retired 
walks in the Master's vineyard ; so that all de- 
pends, may we not say, on endeavouring to be 
just what we should be, whether it be foot or 
hand, or only as a finger on the hand. 

1822.— 10 mo. 22. What a beautiful society, 
I believe the Society of Friends would be, if all 
were diligent to improve the talents bestowed 
upon them ; pressing daily towards the mark of 
our calling; not resting consented in any state, 
known and felt to be imperfect ; and thereby 
encouraging others to be easy and satisfied in a 
state of imperfection. I have of late thought, 
that however assailed with weakness and trial, 
it will not do to rest herein; but using the 
strength afforded, be it little or much, w?ge war 
with every thing which we feel impeding cur 
journey to a state of acceptance, wherein there 
is no condemnation. 

1822. — 10 mo. 25. I know, dear friend, that 
human nature is liable to be much tossed, and 
tried, and perplexed, sometimes with looking 
back, and sometimes with looking forward ; but 
our safety. I think, very much lies in seeking 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 125 

after quietness and resignation, faithfully and 
in simplicity endeavouring, in our outward em- 
ployments, to discharge the duty of one day at 
a time, without being over anxious ; but quietly 
trusting in the Lord for ability to get through 
the duty of one day after another, as they come 
in succession ; because He knows exactly our 
situation and circumstances ; and how availingly 
to pity us and to care for us in all our temptations 
and besetments, so that there is great advantage 
indeed in quietly looking to Him for succour. 
Be sure, do not look for or desire great things, 
either inwardly or outwardly ; but desire, above 
all things, to be kept in humility and fear, that 
so thy steppings may be safe and sure : in them 
is sweet preservation. I believe this is the state 
in which we are at times favoured to see a little 
light upon our path ; and I desire thee to be 
thankful for every degree of true light, be it 
ever so small; for we have nothing truly good 
at our own command. 

1822. — 12 mo. 14. It has often occurred to 
my mind, that events of this interesting nature 
[the loss of our near and tender connexions] 
frequently furnish fresh occasion, calmly and 
deeply to ponder what are the next steps for 
the nearly-connected survivors to take ; a little 
light upon the path of the bereaved, at such 



126 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

seasons, is exceedingly to be prized, and if 
duly appreciated, is, I believe likely, under a 
sense of loss and stripping, to increase our de- 
pendence on the guidance, protection, and sus- 
taining arm of heavenly Goodness. 

1822.— 12 mo. 21. The removal of our vene- 
rable elder, William Tuke, will, I think, be felt 
interesting to many; as of a standard-bearer in 
our camp. I feel desirous that his decease may 
have a tendency to quicken and animate many, 
to stand nobly for the cause he was concerned 
to advocate ; not for the establishing of their 
own views, but the advancement of true piety, 
holiness, and humility, and thereby the glory of 
our heavenly Father. I believe it would be 
acceptable to Him, that as one faithful soldier 
is removed, others should the more nearly and 
diligently unite, that there be no breach in our 
ranks ; but that we might, notwithstanding, 
press forward and advance, as a well-ordered 
army, under the invincible captain. It feels, as 
I write, precious to me to believe, that what we 
sometimes donominate " the cause" is unchange- 
ably good, and worthy to be espoused, being 
the promotion of the glory of God, in the hap- 
piness and salvation of man. And I am a little 
cheered in the hope, although many, and some 
very pleasant persons, are too much at ease. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS 127 

much short of a state of dedication and resigna- 
tion, and of perfect obedience, yet that the call 
will continue so availingly to go forth, that 
many will be aroused, and induced to come for- 
ward with increased zeal and fervency of spirit, 
clothed with humility as a garment ; and that 
our society will yet be beautiful and lovely, an 
ornament and a praise. 

1822. — 12 mo. 29. May we be preserved so 
humble, so lowly, so in the spirit of gospel self- 
denial, as becomes the devoted followers of 
Christ ; and as would enable beholders to dis- 
cover in us the genuine features of his flock. I 
hope I hate formality for formality's sake ; but 
when Friends have had the privilege of being 
trained and accustomed to a plain, exemplary 
dress, I am concerned that those I love may use 
great caution, ere they depart from it. 

My apprehension is, that the present time is 
a dangerous one to Friends. They are courted 
and smiled upon by the world ; and, without 
very great caution, we are liable, in our civil and 
religious intercourse with them, to be drawn 
away from that weightiness of spirit, wherein 
true religious advancement, I believe, is known. 
The true, real, and genuine ground, upon which 
Friends have been mercifully brought, I believe 
to be exceedingly precious ; and our safety and 



128 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

usefulness to others much depend on our keep- 
ing upon it, that we may be strengthened avail- 
ingly by our example to invite others on to it, 
instead of quitting it to go on to theirs. 

It becomes truly religious characters not to 
run with the changeable spirit of the times. We 
may maintain a care respecting this, and yet 
have humble views of ourselves, not thinking 
ourselves better than others, nor piquing our- 
selves on any peculiarity ; but in watchfulness 
and fear, endeavouring not to quit our ranks, or 
give occasion by our example to any fellow - 
soldier to desert his. 

1823. — 4 mo. In all the circumstances and 
changes which we have to experience, what a 
favour it seems to be, to be strengthened to stay 
our minds upon the Lord, and to feel at times a 
sensible, refreshing calm, in which we can re- 
joice with thankfulness, though with fear, know- 
ing how little it is in our power to command or 
preserve, or retain this feeling ; but yet it is very 
sweet now and then to get a little portion of it. It 
is something to recur to, and is indeed as a brook 
by the way, enabling to hold up the head ; and 
thus, in low, succeeding seasons, how encou- 
raging it is to remember that there is this pre- 
cious state to be at times known. How does it 
furnish occasion still to trust on, and not cast 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 129 

away our confidence ; but to believe that al- 
though our lot may be in poverty of spirit, yet 
that the gracious Shepherd, whose goodness 
and mercy are unbounded, will never leave nor 
forsake us, as we endeavour to trust in Him. 
So that however tossed, or however beset with 
trying things, let us often, very often, center 
down in humble quietness, and calm dependence 
on the Lord ; and then, I believe, he will sustain 
and preserve us. 

1823. — 10 mo, 18. It has been a subject of 
very considerable anxiety, that we might be 
comfortably supplied with a companion gifted 
with the requisites to contribute to soothe and 
solace our declining days, which I consider of 
very great consequence ; that the mind may be 
sweetly at liberty to husband and improve the 
supplies of good mercifully vouchsafed day after 
day, so that there may be a little verdure, even 
in advanced age. In adverting to the changes 
we have experienced within the last year or 
two, how apt is the mind to dwell on the priva- 
tions, when we might more profitably be clothed 
with gratitude and humility, in a sense of the 
many privileges vouchsafed, and continued, and 
renewed. 

May Friends of every class be encouraged to 
g 5 



130 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

come up to the mark assigned them, in firmness 
and humility, two very requisite companions to 
each other in the Christian character ; I might 
have added, and wisdom. I do believe that the 
want of these, and of more quietness and inward 
attention, has tended to lay waste the minds of 
very many in our favoured society ; intended, in 
divine wisdom and mercy, as I sometimes think, 
to have been a compact, separated body, en- 
dowed with very precious gifts and favours. If 
there is too little of a capacity for inviting 
others, to be seen in many places, there are 
many amongst us who desire the prosperity of 
Truth. And oh! that none of us may shrink 
from baptism : for may this not be called the 
only way for truly dignified and useful members 
to be produced in the church ? 



131 



CHAP. VIII. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, WRITTEN IN THE 
YEARS 1824 AND 1825. 

1824. — 1 mo. 1. Thy allusion to the expe- 
rience of a winter season, might meet a similar 
statement from us, and I doubt not, from many 
more ; and seeing this feeling and allotment are 
in the permission of a wisdom which cannot 
err, I desire we may accept them with thank- 
fulness, and be enabled wisely to improve from 
them, quickening our diligence in the great and 
highly important engagement of watchfulness, 
and deep inward retirement of mind, before 
Him who knows exactly all our wants, and how 
and when to relieve them to our lasting advan- 
tage. Under a feeling of inward poverty and 
want, of late known and felt, I have thought it 
exceedingly desirable to labour after inward 
quiet and attention, that the strength may be 
rightly felt to be renewed, and our religious 
experience, in the goodness and mercy of 



132 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

Israel's Shepherd, to be enlarged. Hereby the 
ground-work of true patience would be laid, 
and the way prepared for that which is so much 
wanted among us; namely, for our becoming 
more a weighty, humble, watchful, self-denying 
people, spiritually intelligent, and diligent in 
submitting to divine requirings, advancing from 
step to step on the ladder which reaches from 
earth to heaven. May greenness adorn our 
evening, and divine love and mercy be our 
eternal crown of rejoicing. 

1824.— 3 mo. 15. Oh the simplicity that I 
think there is in the Truth! Oh the simplicity 
of the Gospel, and of an inward, attentive, lowly 
waiting, for the renewed revelations of it! How 
can this departure from it [in America] have 
been occasioned ? What a favour, if those 
who have been in any degree jostled off the 
foundation, may be in mercy brought back, and 
have to declare to others, that, in a cloudy time, 
they had missed their way, but are now, in 
humility and meekness, brought back to the 
quiet habitation, the place of rest and safety, 
where I believe the filial fear thou mentionest, 
is happily known and lived in. I hope our 
dear friends now among them will be graciously 
protected; furnished with the needful supply of 
wisdom and strength, and often have to lie down 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 133 

sweetly beside the still waters. Oh! what a 
favour we can conceive this to be, to the poor, 
exercised, and oft tribulated servants. Recur- 
ring again to the occasions of sorrow, I seem 
to want to add, how strange it is that any 
who love the Truth in sincerity, should not 
dread the baneful consequences of breaking the 
unity — the unity of the Spirit, in the bond of 
peace. 

If I have any good desires, I think one of 
them is, that the ministry may be increasingly 
weighty among us. Our dear friends in that 
station, are much to be felt for, and I wish that 
we may be favoured with increased qualification 
to contribute to their help and comfort. How 
does the desire arise, that there may be -quite 
as much in weight as measure. It is a very 
interesting time we live in ; and I think we are 
a singularly-appointed people. How desira- 
ble is it, that we may know our place and 
keep it — a waiting, solid, self-denying people. 
Greatly favoured we have been; and we have 
reason to believe shall be, if we keep to our 
principles — I might say, to our principle; the 
divine light, life, and power revealed in the soul. 
Believing in this with steadfastness, I believe 
we should often have to be very poor, and sit 
very low. But I fear to say much on this irn- 



134 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

portant and weighty subject. Before I quite quit 
it, perhaps I may as well say, that I have (of late 
particularly) thought on the benefit and excel- 
lence of quietness and retiredness of mind; and 
the want of it in our religious and favoured 
Society, as well as in the world at large. If it 
were possible to make Friends sufficiently in 
love with it, what blessed effects might be hoped 
for from it. 

1824. — 4 mo. 13. I am a believer in that 
representation of George Dillwyn's, respecting 
important deliberations and discussions in meet- 
ings for discipline, somewhat on this wise : that, 
when Friends are honestly, sincerely, and pi- 
ously, engaged in delivering their respective 
views, with becoming condescension and feeling 
for each other, and the subject is drawing to a 
point, there is sometimes known a seal on the 
top of it, which bespeaks the conclusion to be 
owned. What a favour and encouragement is 
it, when Friends can perceive thist 

1824. — 7 mo. 30. I notice thy information 
respecting our dear friend's improvement in 
her health. It is indeed a favour, when humi- 
lity clothes the poor instruments, as a garment 
from head to foot : indeed, what virtue is like 
it for value? It becomes the man with one 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 135 

talent, and it is quite as needful for him that 
has the two or the five. What are the most 
gifted, without it, but poor, mistaken creatures, 
forgetful that in a moment all qualification for 
profit or service may be withheld and suspend- 
ed, if not entirely withdrawn? 

1824—11 mo. 12. It is not likely that the 
expression of my poverty should make thee 
rich. I would rather endeavour to profit by 
every dispensation, that I may be favoured to 
know my attention quickened, and my feet 
more and more established in the faith, and 
hope, and patience of the Lord's children. 

I am obliged for the various items of interest- 
ing intelligence contained in thy letter. May we 
who move in comparatively narrow spheres, be 
enabled to pray for the preservation and protec- 
tion of the sincere and upright-hearted, under 
every allotment, and among all the vicissitudes 
permitted to occur. How do I desire that the 
sincere-hearted in America may be kept in the 
patient, steady pursuit of purity and holiness, 
and know from season to season the discovery 
of the brook by the way, enabling to hold up 
the head, and to trust on. 

What a people should v/e be, if we all moved 
on, in the condescendingly appointed order, 
desiring to be neither greater nor less, than 



136 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

divine wisdom intendeth us to be. Then 
surely would peace be our portion, and the 
glory be ascribed to the blessed and holy 
Head; and we be living as dear children of 
the same heavenly-minded family, abounding, 
according to the divine will, in the fruits of the 
Spirit. 

1824. — 12 mo. 8. Within a very short space 
indeed, I have attended to the silent grave the 
remains of two old acquaintances, respecting 
whom it may now be said, as by and by of us, 
the place that has known them, will know them 
no more. Not that I think it desirable that the 
dropping off of those with whom we have been 
used to converse, should be allowed unprofit- 
ably to depress, but to quicken our attention to 
the solemn subject of the uncertainty of time, 
and of all temporal things: it is indeed an 
awfully serious subject, and worthy of our 
daily and hourly meditation. Our Quarterly 
Meeting is again approaching : may it be a 
time of obtaining a little increase of strength, 
and of encouragement to walk in the path of 
faith, and humble confidence in the divine arm 
of Power. 

1825. — 4 ??2o. 8. My mind, one day this 
week, was, I think I may say, sweetly comforted 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 137 

in the contemplation of the blessedness of that 
state, which is preserved so low, so little, and 
humble, and feelingly dependent, as to be 
thankful for even a morsel of heavenly bread, 
and even a small portion of that living water 
which sustains the traveller in the path of faith; 
and this was accompanied with gladness, that, 
from the morning of our day as a religious 
society, it was given forth as the sense of 
Friends, respecting the Scriptures, that what- 
soever doctrine is contrary unto their testimony, 
may therefore justly be rejected as false! It is 
very pleasant to me, that there is extant part of a 
letter from William Savery, of America, written 
at the time of the trouble occasioned by H. B.'s 
dissent from Friends, to a friend in London ; a 
few lines of which I incline to transcribe, though 
I should not suppose they are new to thee: viz. 
" The longer I live, the more unshaken confi- 
dence I think I obtain, that the doctrines laid 
down by Robert Barclay, and our first Friends, 
founded upon the New Testament, and still 
maintained by the body of Society at large, are 
invulnerable to the efforts of vain philosophy, 
sophistry, and curious speculation, so long as 
we retain our belief in that most excellent of all 
books ; and I am of the mind, that all such as 
depart from that foundation, will wither and be 
confounded." 



138 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

1825. — 1 mo. 23. Since our last friendly 
conversation, I have felt much interested in the 
comfort of thy declining years. Thou hast 
often mentioned to me thy uncomfortable feel- 
ings and prospects, respecting thyself and 
human nature. I believe, much of them is oc- 
casioned by thy not endeavouring to lay hold 
of the mercy of God, offered to his creature 
man, through the Spirit of Christ in the soul ; 
because I think, and heartily believe, that by 
resorting to that, we are often permitted to feel 
our minds, through its blessed influence, brought 
into a state of resignation to the dispensations 
of Providence, and into a belief that all He 
does, however inscrutable to our limited and 
finite comprehension, is in perfect wisdom ; and 
that his power is sufficient to turn every thing 
that He suffers to befall us, to a good account 
in the end, agreeably to the apostle's testimony, 
11 that all things work together for good, to 
them that love and fear God." 

As we reverently believe that the Almighty 
is a being of infinite and adorable perfection 
in all his attributes, He stands in no need 
of any thing from us ; but we stand in need 
of every thing from Him. And we cannot 
rationally suppose any motive in Him by the 
creation of man, but the communication of 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 139 

happiness to his creature. And it is good to 
entertain the belief, that this divine goodwill, 
and gracious design to communicate happi- 
ness, is not of a transient nature, but constant 
and perpetual, in Him in whom it is said, 
" there is no variableness nor shadow of 
turning." And I cannot for a moment enter- 
tain the idea that this Divine and Almighty 
Being, who created man for happiness and 
immortality, is so little mindful of him, as 
when he is come into the world, to leave 
him to shift for himself; a creature, who, He 
well knows, has daily and hourly occasion 
for his providential care and fatherly protec- 
tion. Remember that interesting saying of 
our blessed Saviour, " the very hairs of your 
head are all numbered," as emphatically de- 
scriptive of the tender notice and regard of 
the Most High towards his rational and im- 
mortal creatures. 

I am sincerely interested in thy comfort; 
and I desire that the evening of thy days 
may be cheered by the enlivening persuasion, 
that thou canst not be from under the notice 
of Him, who is an omnipresent Spirit, and 
who is not only a God afar off, but also a 
God nigh at hand; about our bed, and about 
our path, and who spieth out all our ways; 



140 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

and, as David beautifully declares, u whose 
tender mercies are over all his works ;" and 
that thus believing, thy sun may go down in 
brightness, and thy latter end be crowned 
with peace, the blessed presage of everlasting 
happiness. 



THE END. 



Printed by Harvey, Darton, & C o. 
Gracechurch Street) London. 



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